LGBTQ rights in Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
Open-knowledge reference entry
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights in the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha have gradually evolved over the years. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is banned in the entire territory through the Constitution Order 2009 and same-sex marriage has been legal on the islands since 2017.
Legality of same-sex sexual activity
Homosexuality is legal in Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha.
Recognition of same-sex relationships
Same-sex marriage has been legal on Ascension Island since 1 January 2017, on Tristan da Cunha since 4 August 2017, and since 20 December 2017 on Saint Helena.
Ascension Island
An ordinance allowing same-sex marriage was approved by the Ascension Island Council on 31 May 2016, in a 5–0 vote. It was signed by the Governor and published in the official gazette on 20 June. On 23 December 2016, the Governor issued an order to commence the law on 1 January 2017.
Tristan da Cunha
On 23 February 2017, after consultation with the Governor of Saint Helena, the Tristan da Cunha Island Council agreed that a law to legalise same-sex marriage would go forward formally for adoption. On 4 August, the Marriages (Tristan da Cunha) Ordinance, 2017, extending the application of the Marriage (Ascension) Ordinance, 2016 to Tristan da Cunha, was signed by the Governor and published in the official gazette. It took effect upon publication.
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