Gay rights in Latvia

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Same-sex relationships

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The democratization process in Latvia has allowed lesbians and gays to establish organizations and infrastructural elements such as bars, clubs, stores, libraries, etc. Cultural, educational and other events can be held, and lifestyles can be freely developed. However society has not reached a high level of tolerance. Over the last three years, there have been violent attacks against individuals in lesbian and gay bars and cafes, police representatives have conducted unauthorized raids against such establishments to check documents and search for weapons, during the course of which establishments are often closed down and patrons are humiliated. Lesbians and gays are often attacked in the streets or in the meeting places. Lesbians and gays can make no criminal charge against their attackers other than "hoologanism" (Latvian Association for Sexual Equality (LASV) - letter to parliamentary commissions)." (Anti-discrimination law in Latvia - summary for parliamentary commission of position of lesbians and gays - Euroletter 41 - April 1996)

1 Laws against homosexuality
2 Military laws
3 Laws against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation
4 Recognition of same-sex relationships
5 Gay life in Latvia

[edit] Laws against homosexuality

There have been no laws against same-sex sexual activity in Latvia. The age of consent is 16 for all.

[edit] Military laws

Homosexuals are not officially banned from military service.

[edit] Laws against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation

In September 2006 a bill against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in workplace was signed (Latvia was the last country in the European Union to introduce anti-discrimination laws dealing with sexual orientation).