LGBTQ rights in São Tomé and Príncipe
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Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people in São Tomé and Príncipe have improved in the 21st century, although LGBTQ people face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQ residents. Both male and female forms of same-sex sexual activity are legal in São Tomé and Príncipe; however, LGBTQ persons face stigmatization among the broader population.
São Tomé and Príncipe was one of the few African states that signed a "joint statement on ending acts of violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity" at the United Nations, condemning violence and discrimination against LGBTQ people.
Laws regarding same-sex sexual activity
Under the Penal Code of São Tomé and Príncipe that took effect in November 2012, same-sex sexual activity is legal. Since 2021, the age of consent is 18 years regardless of sexual orientation or gender (Law No. 15/2021, relating to the First Amendment to the Penal Code). Previously, the age of consent was 16.
Recognition of same-sex relationships
São Tomé and Príncipe does not recognize same-sex marriages, civil unions, or domestic partnerships.
Discrimination protections
The Labour Code 2019 Article 16.2 bans workplace discrimination based on sex and sexual orientation, among other grounds.
No worker or job candidate can be privileged, benefited, harmed, deprived of any right or exempt from any duty in reason, namely, of ancestry and social origin, race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family situation, genetic heritage, ability to reduced work, disability, chronic illness, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, political beliefs or ideological and union affiliation.
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