Fridae

Estonia's president has committed to legalising same-sex unions and marriages with a change in the law possible within weeks.

It would make Estonia the first Baltic country to legalise same-sex marriage.

Lauri Hussar became president of Estonia earlier this year.

In a media interview, Hussar said he believed laws allowing same-sex unions and marriages could be adopted in about four weeks’ time.

He highlighted that the most recent polling showed more than 50 per cent of Estonians supported same-sex marriage.

What's life like for LGBTQ people in Estonia?

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Estonia? Let’s take a look at some of the key equality measures.

Is homosexuality legal in Estonia?

Yes. It was decriminalised in 1992.The age-of-consent is equal, regardless of sexuality.

Are there anti-discrimination protections in place for LGBTQ people in Estonia?

Yes. As one of the conditions for being accepted into the European Union, Estonia adopted comprehensive anti-discrimination provisions in 2004. This was expanded in 2009.

Is there Marriage Equality in Estonia?

No. Since 2016, same-sex relationships can be registered and be given legal recognition.

However, same-sex couples are not able to marry.

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Estonia?

Given that it was formerly part of the Soviet Union, Estonia is now seen as a relatively liberal country.

However, homophobia can still be encountered.