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Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people in the Central African Republic face legal and social challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQ residents. Both male and female types of same-sex sexual activity are legal in the Central African Republic, but LGBTQ persons still face discrimination among the broader population.
The Central African Republic was one of the few African states that signed a "joint statement on ending acts of violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity" at the United Nations, condemning violence and discrimination against LGBTQ people.
Laws regarding same-sex sexual activity
Same-sex sexual activity is legal. However, according to the U.S. Department of State's 2012 human rights report,<blockquote> The penal code criminalizes "public expression of love" between persons of the same sex is imprisonment for six months to two years or a fine of between 150,000 and 600,000 CFA francs ($300 and $1,200). When one of the participants is a child, the adult may be sentenced to two to five years' imprisonment or a fine of 100,000 to 800,000 CFA francs ($200 and $1,600); however, there were no reports that police arrested or detained persons [in 2012] under these provisions.</blockquote>
Recognition of same sex relationships
There is no legal recognition of same-sex couples.
Same-sex marriage is constitutionally banned as marriage is defined in Article 7 of the Constitution as "the union between one man and one woman ... Family and marriage are under the protection of the State."
Adoption and family planning
According to a website of the French government, single and married people are eligible to adopt children. The website does not say whether single LGBTQ people are disqualified or not.
Discrimination protections
There are no laws protecting LGBTQ people from discrimination in areas such as health, employment, education, and access to goods and services. However, Law 24-001 on the Protection of Personal Data protects sexual orientation as sensitive data. Article 17 states "Any processing of sensitive data is prohibited due to risks of discrimination or infringement of personal freedoms.
Living conditions
The U.S. Department of State's 2012 Human Rights Report found that,