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LGBT+ rights in Scotland have evolved extensively
and we’re incredibly proud to say that we’re now one of the most progressive
countries in the world. When it comes to same sex marriage, Scotland led the way
in the UK, being the first country to consult on a draft bill. The
Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 was passed by the
Scottish Parliament on 4 March 2014, and on 31 December 2014, at 00:01, the
first same sex marriage ceremonies took place across Scotland. These joyous
occasions were cheered on in the media and in the communities across the
country.
Same sex couples were actually able to enter into civil partnerships in Scotland
as far back as 2005. The 2014 legislation meant that these couples were able to
change the partnerships into marriages if they wanted. Also, since 2009, same
sex couples have been granted joint and step adoption status. This allows same
sex couples the opportunity to provide a loving family environment for children
who need it.
In 2018, The
Historical Sexual Offences (Pardons & Disregards) (Scotland) was introduced
in Scotland. This was a key piece of legislation that allowed a formal pardon to
be granted to people convicted of offences related to same-sex sexual activity
between men that would now be legal.
Although we have made great strides in this area, we know that there is still a
lot of work to be done. Scotland is committed to bringing our legislation on
gender reassignment in line with international best practice and though this
work has been temporarily halted by the coronavirus pandemic, we are ready to
continue this work as soon as possible.
In 2007, the Scottish Government began funding the
Scottish Trans Alliance
– the first time a transgender rights project had been funded by any national
government in Europe. 2014 also saw Scotland become the first country to host a
Transgender and Intersex Conference. The conference was designed to bring people
together to work and improve transgender and intersex equality from across the
UK.
The Scottish Government has recently consulted on reforming gender recognition
and will shortly be consulting on equality for intersex people. Making progress
for trans and intersex people will hopefully see Scotland remain one of the top
countries for many years to come.
As for the future, Scotland is committed to finding ways to further support LGBT+
communities where possible, helping to lead the way in ensuring a diverse and
accepting culture for everyone.
Note: The above taken from
LGBT+
Other resources....
LGBTI The Scottish Government portal
Goverment Policy on ensuring equality for Scotland's lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender and intersex citizens and communities.
LGBT Rights in Scotland -
Wikipedia
LGBT Youth Scotland
Scotland’s national charity for LGBTI young people,
working with 13–25 year olds across the country. We also deliver the LGBT
Charter programme to schools, organisations and businesses. |
