Global Survey Reveals Varying Levels of Acceptance for Gay and Lesbian Communities Worldwide

A 2023 Gallup survey shows fluctuating perceptions of acceptance for gay and lesbian individuals around the world, with Nordic countries and select European nations leading the way while African and Middle Eastern countries lag behind. The findings indicate a complex interplay of cultural, social, and political influences on attitudes towards LGBTQ+ communities.

In 2023, a Gallup survey revealed that 45% of people worldwide viewed their city or area as a “good place” for gay or lesbian individuals to live, while 44% felt it was “not a good place.” This marks a decline from 2020-2022 levels, which were around 50%, but remains significantly higher than the 21% recorded in 2006.

Nordic countries such as Norway (92%), Iceland (90%), Sweden (89%), and Denmark (86%) are among the most accepting, along with other European nations like Spain (89%), the Netherlands (88%), and Malta (87%). Australia also ranks high at 85%. Nepal (87%) stands out as the most accepting non-Western country following its recognition of same-sex marriage in 2023.

Conversely, African and Middle Eastern countries show the lowest levels of acceptance. Countries like Senegal (1%), Gambia (3%), Malawi (4%), Zambia (5%), and Lebanon (5%) rank at the bottom, with consensual same-sex acts remaining illegal in several of these nations.

Interestingly, Mozambique has become one of the most gay-friendly countries in Africa, with 49% viewing their area positively, rising from 36% in 2022. This is a significant increase from 8% in 2006, following the decriminalization of gay and lesbian relations in 2015.

Countries such as Belgium (84%), Laos (54%), Greece (51%), Cyprus (49%), the Dominican Republic (44%), and Japan (42%) have also seen increases in acceptance. However, nations like India (43%), China (41%), Bangladesh (60%), South Africa (54%), Canada (83%), and Italy (68%) recorded decreases in perceptions of acceptance.

The survey highlights the variability in acceptance of gay and lesbian people across the globe, influenced by cultural, social, and political factors.