LGBT rights in Mauritius

LGBT rights in Mauritius
Mauritius
Status	Legal since 2023[1]
Gender identity	No
Discrimination protections	Sexual orientation protections by statute since 2008 and by constitution since 2023
Family rights
Recognition of relationships	No
Adoption	No

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) rights in Mauritius have expanded in the 21st century, although LGBT Mauritians may still face legal difficulties not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Prior to 2023, sodomy (opposite-sex and same-sex anal and oral sex) was criminalized by Section 250 of the Criminal Code. However, Mauritius fully decriminalized homosexuality in October 2023.^[1] Although same-sex marriage is not recognized in Mauritius, LGBT people are broadly protected from discrimination in areas such as employment and the provision of goods and services, making it one of the few African countries to have such protections for LGBT people. The Constitution of Mauritius guarantees the right of individuals to a private life.^[2]

Mauritius is one of the 96 countries to have signed the "Joint Statement on Ending Acts of Violence Related Human Rights Violations Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity" at the United Nations, condemning violence and discrimination against LGBT people.^[3] Furthermore, in recent years, there has been a growing acceptance towards LGBT people among Mauritius' population, particularly the younger generation, with polls indicating that it is one of Africa's most LGBT-friendly countries.^[4] Nevertheless, conservative attitudes about LGBT people are still commonplace.^{[5][clarification needed]}