About Aruba

Aruba is a captivating Caribbean destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
With its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and year-round sunshine, Aruba is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
The island's diverse landscape, including rugged desert terrain and lush tropical gardens, provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture through colorful festivals, lively music, and delicious cuisine influenced by the island's multicultural heritage.
The friendly locals, known as "Arubans," are always eager to share their traditions and stories with travelers, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
Whether you're seeking relaxation, excitement, or cultural experiences, Aruba has something for every type of traveler to enjoy.

LGBTQ+ Overview

Legal Protections and Rights

Anti-Discrimination Laws

Aruba has made progress in terms of legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment is prohibited. However, there are still gaps in comprehensive anti-discrimination protections that cover all areas of public life.

Marriage Equality

Same-sex marriage is not yet legal in Aruba. However, same-sex marriages performed in the Netherlands are recognized. In 2016, Aruba passed a law allowing registered partnerships for same-sex couples, which grants some of the same rights as marriage.

Adoption Rights

Adoption by same-sex couples is currently not allowed in Aruba. This remains a significant area where legal recognition and rights are limited for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Social Acceptance and Attitudes

The social acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in Aruba is mixed. While there is a growing movement towards greater acceptance, traditional and conservative views still persist in some segments of society. Public displays of affection by same-sex couples may not be widely accepted.

Safety Concerns and Risks

Hate Crimes

Aruba does not have specific hate crime legislation that addresses crimes motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity. While overt violence against LGBTQ+ individuals is not commonly reported, incidents of discrimination and harassment may occur.

Police Protection

The police in Aruba are generally professional and are expected to protect all citizens, including LGBTQ+ individuals. However, the lack of specific hate crime laws can sometimes result in underreporting or inadequate responses to incidents targeting LGBTQ+ people.

Resources and Support Organizations

There are a few organizations in Aruba that provide support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Fundacion Orguyo Aruba (FOA): This organization works to promote the rights and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in Aruba through advocacy, education, and community events.
• Caribbean Pride: An organization that supports LGBTQ+ rights across the Caribbean, including Aruba, by organizing events and providing resources.

Notable Events or Incidents

In recent years, Aruba has seen some positive changes regarding LGBTQ+ rights. The introduction of registered partnerships in 2016 was a significant step forward. Additionally, the annual Aruba Pride Week, which includes a Pride Parade, has been growing in popularity and visibility, helping to foster a more inclusive environment.

However, there have also been reports of isolated incidents of discrimination and harassment, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and legal reforms to ensure the safety and equality of LGBTQ+ individuals in Aruba.