In 2019, over 29 countries have officially legalized gay marriage. It may seem like a small number, but it’s a big celebration for the LGBTQ+ community because they have been fighting for equal rights on marriage. And although this is a small number compared to countries that don’t legalize gay-marriage, its a big start for them.
If you’re wondering which countries can legally wed gay couples, here’s a quick list for you:
1. Netherlands
The Netherlands, a part of northwestern Europe, was the first country ever to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2001. Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, and there are a lot of great spots to celebrate gay weddings there. Newlyweds can spend their honeymoon in the Hotel Pulitzer with its picturesque canal.
2. Belgium
In 2003, just two years after Netherlands’ declaration, Belgium (Western Europe) also announced the legalization of same-sex marriage as well. If you’re thinking about getting married in Belgium, you can get married in Bruges, which has a great view of its bridges, canals, and cobblestone streets.
3. Spain
Sometime after the Netherlands and Belgium’s announcement, Spain also pledged their allegiance to the LGBTQ+ community. Spain is part of Europe’s the Iberian Peninsula and the country legalized same-sex marriage in 2005.
4. Canada
The North American country, Canada, is the first non-European country ever to announce its legalization of same-sex marriage. This historic moment happened back in 2005.
5. South Africa
Africa, as a continent, has conflicting opinions on marriage or even gay relationships. Some African countries also considered homosexual acts as crimes. But in 2006, South Africa embraced change and legalized same-sex marriage.
6. Norway
Norway, a Nordic country in the northern part of Europe, is also one of the European countries that legalized gay marriage in the year 2009. The country has a lot of gay-friendly events and scenery for gay couples to enjoy.
7. Sweden
In 2009, the same year as Norway’s declaration, the Scandinavian country of Sweden also announced their support for same-sex marriage. Norway is known for its coastal islands, so a proper beachfront wedding ceremony and reception is an excellent way to celebrate it.
8. Portugal
There are no signs of stopping for European countries in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Portugal, found in the southern part of Europe, legalized gay marriage in 2010.
9. Iceland
Iceland is another Nordic country of Europe to legalize gay marriage, declaring it in the same year as Portugal in 2010. And because Iceland is known for its picturesque mountains, a wedding within the area is undoubtedly a creative way to celebrate it.
10. Argentina
The second country from America to support same-sex marriage next to Canada is Argentina in 2010. You can find this country in the southern part of America. Catholic churches are opposed to same-sex marriage, and even if Argentina is a Catholic country, Spain’s declaration inspired the country to follow suit.
Final Thoughts
More countries support same-sex marriage now and people have opened their minds to this social issue. And although the list is just a tiny percent of the world, knowing that there are countries that support the LGBTQ+ community is already a big win. Which countries do you like best?