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About Taiwan
From its bustling night markets and vibrant street food scene to its stunning natural landscapes and modern cities, Taiwan has something for everyone.
The country is known for its warm and welcoming people, who are always eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.
Taiwan's diverse attractions include the iconic Taipei 101, the historic streets of Jiufen, the breathtaking Taroko Gorge, and the picturesque Sun Moon Lake.
With its efficient public transportation system and high safety standards, Taiwan is a convenient and secure destination for travelers.
Whether you're exploring the bustling city streets or hiking through lush mountain trails, Taiwan is sure to leave a lasting impression with its beauty, culture, and hospitality.
LGBTQ+ Overview
Legal Protections and Rights
Anti-Discrimination Laws
Taiwan has several anti-discrimination laws that protect LGBTQ+ individuals. The Gender Equity Education Act, passed in 2004, prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation in educational settings. Additionally, the Employment Service Act and the Act of Gender Equality in Employment offer protections against workplace discrimination.
Marriage Equality
In May 2019, Taiwan became the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. The Constitutional Court's ruling in 2017 mandated that the legislature pass laws to allow same-sex couples to marry, which was successfully enacted within the stipulated two-year period.
Adoption Rights
As of now, same-sex couples in Taiwan have limited adoption rights. They can adopt the biological children of their partner, but joint adoption of non-biological children remains restricted. Efforts continue to push for full adoption rights for same-sex couples.
Social Acceptance and Attitudes
Social acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in Taiwan has been gradually improving. The legalization of same-sex marriage marked a significant step forward, and public opinion polls show increasing support for LGBTQ+ rights. However, traditional and conservative attitudes still exist, particularly among older and rural populations.
Safety Concerns and Risks
Hate Crimes
While Taiwan is generally considered safe for LGBTQ+ individuals, hate crimes can and do occur, though they are relatively rare. The government and law enforcement agencies have taken steps to address hate crimes, but reporting and documentation could be improved.
Police Protection
Police protection for LGBTQ+ individuals in Taiwan has improved over the years. Law enforcement agencies are more aware of LGBTQ+ issues and have been involved in efforts to ensure the safety of LGBTQ+ events such as Pride parades. However, there is still room for increased sensitivity and training among police officers.
Resources and Support Organizations
There are several organizations in Taiwan that provide support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals:
- Taiwan Tongzhi Hotline Association: Provides counseling, support, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Taiwan LGBT Family Rights Advocacy: Focuses on family rights and provides resources for LGBTQ+ families.
- Taiwan Transgender Family Rights Association: Offers support and advocacy for transgender individuals and their families.
- Gender/Sexuality Rights Association Taiwan (GSRAT): Works on a wide range of LGBTQ+ rights issues through advocacy and education.
Notable Events and Incidents
Several notable events and incidents have marked the progress of LGBTQ+ rights and safety in Taiwan:
- 2017 Constitutional Court Ruling: The court ruled that the prohibition of same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, paving the way for marriage equality in 2019.
- 2019 Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage: Taiwan became the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ rights in the region.
- Taipei Pride Parade: Held annually, it is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Asia, attracting tens of thousands of participants and demonstrating strong public support for LGBTQ+ rights.
