Denmark
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Gay rights in Denmark are generally extensive, and Danish society is very tolerant of homosexuality. Homosexuality was legalised in 1933 and since 1979, the age of consent is equal at 15, regardless of sexual orientation and/or gender. Homosexuals are not banned from military service. In addition, Danish law bans hate crimes, which includes crimes against people because of their sexuality. Denmark was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex unions, in 1989. The Danish parliament, Folketinget, has since then discussed same-sex marriage, artificial insemination of lesbians, and couples' rights to adopt several times. Homosexuals can adopt their partner's biological children. On June 2, 2006, a majority in Folketinget voted for abolishing a law that since 1997 had banned lesbians from insemination. In 1979, Denmark granted Greenland sovereignty under the Home Rule Act, although it still influences the island's culture and politics. As is the case with Denmark, homosexuality is a not a crime, when it involves consenting adults in private, and Denmark's anti-discrimination laws also apply to Greenland. Greenland enacted a civil unions law in 1996 and there is a LGBT-rights organization called "Qaamaneq" (Light), which has organized social events. LGBT Travelers should check out our new Denmark Gay Lodging Directory.