Finding a Welcoming Home Abroad For LGBTQ+ Expats
Relocating to a new country can be difficult for anyone, especially LGBTQ+ individuals seeking a welcoming environment that respects their differing views on sexuality and identity.
A recent study by William Russell, an international health insurance provider, identifies the top countries promoting LGBTQ+ exclusivity - a result collated from a third-party survey conducted in 2023
The Top 30 LGBTQ+ Friendly Countries For Expats Relocating
1. Argentina
2. Australia
3. Belgium
4. Brazil
5. Canada
6. Chile
7. Colombia
8. France
9. Germany
10. Hungary
11. Ireland
12. Italy
13. Japan
14. Mexico
15. Netherlands
16. New Zealand
17. Peru
18. Poland
19. Portugal
20. Romania
21. Singapore
22. South Africa
23. South Korea
24. Spain
25. Sweden
26. Switzerland
27. Thailand
28. Turkey
29. United Kingdom
30. United States
Photo | Hannah Voggenhuber/Unsplash
The Netherlands topped the list, followed by Australia, Spain, Belgium, and Sweden as the top 5 countries on the list while Turkey, Poland, South Korea, and Peru ranked the lowest.
These data were compiled across sources like the World Justice Project, Global Peace Index, and ILGA World Database for accuracy in research.
More Interesting Insights From the Study
The study didn't focus on merely finding the “best” countries from the survey, it considered factors like LGBTQ+ events, safety, discrimination scores, and parental and medical rights.
We've listed some relevant data to consider from the research.
- Brazil has the largest proportion of LGBTQ+ individuals (15%).
- Singapore and Japan have the least discrimination despite lacking certain medical rights and marriage equality.
- Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium also retain better tolerance for the LGBTQ+ community.
- The United States hosts the most LGBTQ+ events - up to 273.
- Canada ranked second with 118 events, followed by the UK and Germany with 71 and 70 LGBTQ+ events respectively.
- Australia ranked lowest with 27 LGBTQ+ events hosted so far.
Why Does This Research Matter?
William Cooper, marketing director at William Russell, emphasizes the importance of this research for LGBTQ+ expats and why it had to be thoroughly conducted.
“Unfortunately, not all countries around the world are accepting of the LGBTQ+ community. This can make things more difficult for some individuals when deciding which country to relocate to. It’s important that all expats, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, have a fulfilling experience when moving abroad. Therefore, thorough research is essential before deciding on a new country to call home,” he explained.
This study provides valuable insights for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking a welcoming environment abroad. By understanding the most inclusive countries, expats can make informed decisions about their new home.
Flipside: Top 15 Countries We Think LGBTQ+ Expats Should Avoid In 2024
1. Russia
2. Maldives
3. Nigeria
4. Morocco
5. Jamaica
6. Egypt
7. Malaysia
8. Saudi Arabia
9. Uganda
10. United Arab Emirates
11. Tanzania
12. Sri Lanka
13. Barbados
14. Malawi
15. St. Lucia