Same-sex sexual activity legal? Legal Recognition of
relationships No | Discrimination protections No Adoption No | |
 | ||
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons in Vanuatu may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Households headed by same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex married couples.
Contents
Law regarding same-sex sexual activity
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Vanuatu. Since 2007, the age of consent is equal, regardless of sex.
Recognition of same-sex unions
Vanuatu does not recognise same-sex unions in any form.
In October 2013, the Minister for Internal Affairs issued a warning, which says that pastors are not allowed to preside over same-sex marriages.
Discrimination protections
There is no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
Social conditions
Vanuatu is a socially conservative country. Gay and lesbian travellers (and citizens) are advised to avoid public displays of affection. There is no active gay scene in Vanuatu.