View source for LGBTQ rights in the Netherlands

{{Short description|none}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}}
{{Infobox LGBT rights
| location_header = the Netherlands
| image = EU-Netherlands.svg
| caption = {{map_caption |location_color=dark green |country=the '''[[Netherlands]]''' |region=Europe |region_color=dark gray |subregion = the [[European Union]] |subregion_color=light green |legend=EU-Netherlands.svg}}
| legal_status = Legal since 1811,<br />equal age of consent since 1971
| gender_identity_expression = Transgender people are allowed to change legal gender without surgery or hormone therapy, but a specialist's letter of permission given after a prolonged period of talks is required.
| recognition_of_relationships = 
[[Same-sex marriage in the Netherlands|Registered partnerships since 1998 <br />Same-sex marriage since 2001]]
| adoption     = Full adoption rights since 2001
| military     = LGBTQ people allowed to serve openly
| discrimination_protections = Sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics protections; Sexual orientation only formally added to the Constitution since 2023
}}
{{LGBT rights}}
[[Lesbian]], [[gay]], [[bisexual]], [[transgender]], and [[queer]] ([[LGBTQ]]) rights in the Netherlands are among the most advanced in the world.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Niewiarowski |first1=Erik |title=Best countries to work in named in new study – and it’s not good news for the US or UK |url=https://www.thepinknews.com/2024/03/22/best-countries-in-the-world-to-work-in/#page/7 |website=PinkNews |access-date=7 July 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.gallup.com/poll/183809/european-countries-among-top-places-gay-people-live.aspx |title=European Countries Among Top Places for Gay People to Live |website=Gallup |date=26 June 2015 |access-date=4 March 2018 |archive-date=27 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327101849/https://news.gallup.com/poll/183809/european-countries-among-top-places-gay-people-live.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=5 June 2023 |title=The 203 Worst (& Safest) Countries for LGBTQ+ Travel in 2023 |url=https://www.asherfergusson.com/lgbtq-travel-safety/ |access-date=20 August 2023 |website=Asher & Lyric}}</ref> Same-sex sexual activity was legalized in 1811 after [[France]] invaded the country and installed the [[Napoleonic Code]], erasing any remaining [[sodomy laws]]. No more sodomy laws were enacted after the country received independence. An age of consent equal with that of heterosexual activity was put in place in 1971. During the late 20th century, awareness surrounding homosexuality grew and society became more tolerant of gay and bisexual people. The changes eventually led to homosexuality's declassification as a [[mental illness]] in 1973 and a [[Sexual orientation and the military of the Netherlands|ban]] on discrimination based on sexual orientation in the military. The ''Equal Treatment Act 1994'' bans discrimination on account of [[sexual orientation]] in employment, housing, public accommodations, and other areas. This was extended in 2019 to include discrimination based on [[gender identity]], gender expression and sex characteristics.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.coc.nl/homepage/senaat-stemt-voor-verbod-op-discriminatie-trans-en-intersekse-personen|title=Senaat stemt voor verbod op discriminatie trans- en intersekse personen|date=12 March 2019|language=nl|work=COC|access-date=25 March 2019|archive-date=25 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190325170147/https://www.coc.nl/homepage/senaat-stemt-voor-verbod-op-discriminatie-trans-en-intersekse-personen|url-status=live}}</ref> After the country began granting same-sex couples ''registered partnerships'' benefits in 1998, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize [[Same-sex marriage in the Netherlands|same-sex marriage]] in 2001. Same-sex joint and [[stepfamily|stepchild]] adoption are also permitted, and lesbian couples can access [[In vitro fertilisation|IVF]] as well.

The [[Netherlands]] has become one of the most [[Cultural liberalism|culturally liberal]] countries in the world,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rijksoverheid.nl/ministeries/vws#ref-minvws|title=Ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Sport|date=18 February 2010|access-date=14 January 2015|archive-date=17 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150817200738/http://www.rijksoverheid.nl/ministeries/vws#ref-minvws|url-status=live}}</ref> with recent polls indicating that more than 90% of [[Dutch people]] support [[same-sex marriage]]. [[Amsterdam]] has frequently been named one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the world,<ref name="independent.co.uk">{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/love-sex/taboo-tolerance/the-ten-best-places-in-the-world-to-be-gay-932557.html?action=gallery&ino=7|title=Amsterdam In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to|work=The Independent|access-date=14 January 2015|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327091436/https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/love-sex/taboo-tolerance/the-ten-best-places-in-the-world-to-be-gay-932557.html?action=gallery&ino=7|url-status=live}}</ref> famous for its many accommodations specifically pertaining to the LGBTQ community, including its many gay [[Gay bar|bars]], [[Gay bathhouse|bathhouses]], hotels, and venues as well as Pink Point, which provides LGBTQ-friendly information and souvenirs, and the national [[Homomonument]], which was completed in 1987 and was the first monument in the world to commemorate homosexuals who were persecuted and killed during [[World War II]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.amsterdam.info/gay/ |title=Gay Amsterdam |website=Amsterdam Info |access-date=July 6, 2023 |archive-date=27 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327193042/https://www.amsterdam.info/gay/}}</ref> Since February 2023, protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and disability were formally added to the Netherlands Constitution.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/02/12/netherlands-votes-to-ban-lgbtq-discrimination/ |title=The Netherlands votes to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation |last=Perry |first=Sophie |date=12 February 2023 |website=PinkNews |access-date=July 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230212163241/https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/02/12/netherlands-votes-to-ban-lgbtq-discrimination/ |archive-date=February 12, 2023}}</ref>

==Law regarding same-sex sexual activity==
Same-sex activity has been legal since 1811. The age of consent is set at 16 regardless of gender and sexual orientation, having been equalised in 1971.

=== History ===
{{main|LGBT history in the Netherlands}}
Between 1730 and 1811, [[sodomy]] was a [[capital crime]] in the [[Dutch Republic]], resulting in widespread panic throughout the Netherlands and the persecution of hundreds of homosexuals.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Murphy|first1=Timothy|title=Reader's Guide to Lesbian and Gay Studies|date=18 October 2013|publisher=Routledge|isbn=9781135942342|page=418|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FeWMAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA418|access-date=24 June 2015|archive-date=2 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160202083812/https://books.google.com/books?id=FeWMAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA418|url-status=live}}</ref> After the [[France|French]] invaded and installed the [[Napoleonic Code]] in 1811, all laws against same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults in private were repealed. After the Dutch received independence in 1813, no new sodomy laws were enacted. The [[Christianity|Christian]]-based political parties enacted Article 248bis of the Penal Code in 1911, which raised the [[age of consent]] for same-sex sexual activity to 21 whilst the age of consent for heterosexual activity remained at 16. Laws citing [[public indecency]] were also often used against homosexuals.

During [[World War II]], the [[Nazis]] introduced [[Paragraph 175]] into Dutch law, which prohibited any same-sex sexual activity once again. The law was repealed after the end of the war.

During the mid-20th century, society's attitude towards homosexuality, with [[psychiatrists]] and clergy beginning to view it less critically. In 1971, the age of consent for same-sex sexual activity was equalised. Article 248bis was repealed. In 1973, homosexuality was no longer treated as a [[mental illness]], which paved the way for allowing gay people to serve in the military.

==Recognition of same-sex relationships==
{{main|Same-sex marriage in the Netherlands}}
[[File:Weddinginholland.jpg|right|thumb|Two men marrying in [[Amsterdam]], in the first month after the possibility to marry was opened to same-sex couples (2001)]]
Dutch law began granting same-sex couples [[civil union|registered partnerships]] on 1 January 1998 as an alternative for [[marriage]]. Registered partnerships are also allowed for opposite-sex couples.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://same-sex.web.ined.fr/pdf/DocTrav125/05Doc125TheNetherlands.pdf |title=Major legal consequences of marriage, cohabitation and registered partnership for different-sex and same-sex partners in the Netherlands |first=Kees |last=Waaldijk |access-date=2011-12-26 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303172043/https://same-sex.web.ined.fr/pdf/DocTrav125/05Doc125TheNetherlands.pdf |archive-date= 3 March 2016 }}</ref> The Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize [[same-sex marriage]] in 2001, with the law coming into effect on 1 April.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://tvnz.co.nz/view/news_world_story_skin/34978 |title=World's first legal gay weddings |date=1 April 2001 |access-date=2009-10-08 |website=[[TVNZ]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100205115951/http://tvnz.co.nz/view/news_world_story_skin/34978 |archive-date= 5 February 2010 }}</ref> That day, [[Job Cohen]], the [[Mayor of Amsterdam]], married four same-sex couples after becoming a registrar specifically to officiate at the weddings.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/1253754.stm |title=Dutch gay couples exchange vows |publisher=[[BBC News]] |date=1 April 2001 |access-date=14 January 2015 |archive-date=5 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305025731/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/1253754.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> The bill had passed the [[House of Representatives (Netherlands)|House of Representatives]] by 109 votes against 33.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2000/09/13/world/dutch-legislators-approve-full-marriage-rights-for-gays.html?scp=2&sq=Norway+Gay+Marriages&st=nyt|title=Dutch Legislators Approve Full Marriage Rights for Gays|website=[[The New York Times]]|date=13 September 2000|access-date=14 January 2015|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327101015/https://www.nytimes.com/2000/09/13/world/dutch-legislators-approve-full-marriage-rights-for-gays.html?scp=2&sq=Norway+Gay+Marriages&st=nyt|url-status=live}}</ref> Although same-sex marriages can be performed in the [[Europe]]an territory of the Netherlands and the [[Caribbean Netherlands|Caribbean]] territories of [[Bonaire]], [[Sint Eustatius]] and [[Saba (island)|Saba]], [[Same-sex marriage in Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten|same-sex marriages]] performed in [[Aruba]], [[Curaçao]] and [[Sint Maarten]], which are constituent countries of the [[Kingdom of the Netherlands]], are not officially valid. As a result of article 40 of the [[Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands]], same-sex marriages performed anywhere else in the Kingdom must be recognized in all territories,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0002154/geldigheidsdatum_29-12-2010#3_Artikel40 |title=wetten.nl – Wet- en regelgeving – Statuut voor het Koninkrijk der Nederlanden – BWBR0002154 |access-date=14 January 2015 |archive-date=21 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721075459/http://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0002154/geldigheidsdatum_29-12-2010#3_Artikel40 |url-status=live }}</ref> however, they are not required to guarantee equal treatment of same-sex couples with valid marriage licenses.

Before 2014, [[Marriage officiant|civil servants]] could refuse to marry same-sex couples as long as the municipality ensured that other civil servants were available to solemnize the marriage. In 2014, a law was passed that made it illegal for all marriage officiants to refuse their services to same-sex couples.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.eerstekamer.nl/wetsvoorstel/33344_initiatiefvoorstel_pia |title=Eerste Kamer der Staten-Generaal – Initiatiefvoorstel-Pia Dijkstra en Schouw Gewetensbezwaren ambtenaren van de burgerlijke stand (33.344) |website=eerstekamer.nl |access-date=19 May 2020 |archive-date=27 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327102626/https://www.eerstekamer.nl/wetsvoorstel/33344_initiatiefvoorstel_pia |url-status=live }}</ref>

In October 2021, it was clarified and investigated that "any memberships of the Dutch Royal Family" legally can enter into [[same-sex marriage]] in effect since 1 April 2001 – without losing any titles, rights and/or privileges whatsoever.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2021/10/12/dutch-royal-family-same-sex-marriage/ |title=Netherlands prime minister says Dutch royals can marry same-sex partners and keep throne |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |access-date=14 October 2021 |archive-date=12 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211012225627/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2021/10/12/dutch-royal-family-same-sex-marriage/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/13/europe/royal-same-sex-marriage-netherlands-intl-scli/index.html |title=Dutch monarch could be in same-sex marriage, prime minister says |publisher=CNN|date=13 October 2021 |access-date=2022-01-07 |archive-date=14 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211014063546/https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/13/europe/royal-same-sex-marriage-netherlands-intl-scli/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2021/10/dutch-princess-can-marry-another-woman-still-become-queen/ |title=The Dutch princess can marry another woman & still become Queen |first=Bil |last=Browning |date=13 October 2021 |website=lgbtqnation.com |access-date=14 October 2021 |archive-date=14 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211014074434/https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2021/10/dutch-princess-can-marry-another-woman-still-become-queen/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Adoption and parenting==
Same-sex adoption was legalized alongside same-sex marriage in 2001, which includes joint and stepchild adoption. The Dutch Parliament also began allowing same-sex couples to adopt children overseas in 2009.<ref name="adoption"/> Lesbian couples can get access to [[In vitro fertilisation|IVF]] treatment, as well as parentage rights for their children. Assisted insemination in case of infertility is covered by health insurance, whether concerning single women, opposite-sex couples or lesbian couples.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraaf.nl/nieuws/3504004/kunstmatige-inseminatie-blijft-vergoed|title=Kunstmatige inseminatic bijft vergoed|work=De Telegraaf|date=27 April 2019|language=nl|access-date=23 February 2020|archive-date=23 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223185145/https://www.telegraaf.nl/nieuws/3504004/kunstmatige-inseminatie-blijft-vergoed|url-status=live}}</ref>

Altruistic [[surrogacy]] is legal in the [[Netherlands]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.government.nl/topics/surrogate-mothers/surrogacy-legal-aspects|title=Legal and illegal aspects of surrogacy – Surrogate mothers – Government.nl|first=Ministerie van Justitie en|last=Veiligheid|date=3 July 2015|website=government.nl|access-date=6 February 2020|archive-date=20 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220210515/https://www.government.nl/topics/surrogate-mothers/contents/surrogacy-legal-aspects|url-status=live}}</ref> Commercial surrogacy is illegal, regardless of sexual orientation. Although altruistic surrogacy is legal, there are only a few hospitals that undertake these arrangements, and there are very strict rules. This makes a lot of couples seek their treatment outside the Netherlands.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.familylaw.com.ua/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=69&Itemid=99&lang=en|title=International Surrogacy Laws|last=Administrator|website=familylaw.com.ua|access-date=14 October 2018|archive-date=24 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924153321/http://www.familylaw.com.ua/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=69&Itemid=99&lang=en|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2019, at least two [[In vitro fertilisation|IVF]] clinics in the Netherlands started offering surrogacy services to same-sex couples; one in [[Leiderdorp]] helps with the fertilisation of the surrogate mother's eggs, while a second in [[Gemert-Bakel]] works with the family members of the couple for a better genetic match.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://demonitor.kro-ncrv.nl/artikelen/rondgang-ivf-klinieken-homoparen-met-een-draagmoeder-kunnen-vanaf-2019-terecht-in-nederland|title=Rondgang IVF-klinieken: Homoparen met een draagmoeder kunnen vanaf 2019 terecht in Nederland|work=De Monitor|date=13 November 2018|language=nl|access-date=4 February 2019|archive-date=2 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502063820/https://demonitor.kro-ncrv.nl/artikelen/rondgang-ivf-klinieken-homoparen-met-een-draagmoeder-kunnen-vanaf-2019-terecht-in-nederland|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rtlnieuws.nl/nieuws/nederland/artikel/4482966/homostellen-met-draagmoeder-kunnen-volgend-jaar-terecht-bij-ivf|title=Homostellen met draagmoeder kunnen volgend jaar terecht bij IVF-klinieken|work=RTL Nieuws|date=13 December 2018|language=nl|access-date=4 February 2019|archive-date=19 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190519203804/https://www.rtlnieuws.nl/nieuws/nederland/artikel/4482966/homostellen-met-draagmoeder-kunnen-volgend-jaar-terecht-bij-ivf|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Discrimination protections==
The Dutch Parliament enacted the ''Equal Treatment Act 1994'' ({{langx|nl|Algemene wet gelijke behandeling}}; {{langx|fy|Algemiene wet gelikense behanneling}}) in March of that year, which bans (among others) discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation in employment, housing, and both public and private accommodations.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0006502/2015-07-01 |title=Algemene wet gelijke behandeling |first=Ministerie van Binnenlandse Zaken en |last=Koninkrijksrelaties |website=Wettenbank Overheid |access-date=July 6, 2023 |archive-date=20 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200820224417/https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0006502/2015-07-01}}</ref> Before March 2019, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics were not specifically mentioned, but discrimination was nonetheless banned. There had been cases where the Dutch Institute for Human Rights ruled that transgender people were protected under the clause of "gender". On 16 January 2017, a bill was introduced to explicitly add sex characteristics, gender identity and gender expression to the list of anti-discrimination grounds. The bill was approved by the House (127–23) on 3 July 2018 and by the Senate (64–11) on 12 March 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vice.com/nl/article/transgender-en-intersekse-mensen-worden-vanaf-nu-beschermd-tegen-discriminatie/|title=Transgender en intersekse mensen worden vanaf nu beschermd tegen discriminatie|work=Broadly|date=12 March 2019|language=nl|access-date=25 March 2019|archive-date=25 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190325165616/https://broadly.vice.com/nl/article/zmak9a/transgender-en-intersekse-mensen-worden-vanaf-nu-beschermd-tegen-discriminatie|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.transgendernetwerk.nl/verbod-op-discriminatie/|title=Senaat Stemt Voor Verbod Op Discriminatie Trans- En Intersekse Personen|work=Transgender Info|language=nl|date=12 March 2019|access-date=25 March 2019|archive-date=25 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190325165617/https://www.transgendernetwerk.nl/verbod-op-discriminatie/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.eerstekamer.nl/wetsvoorstel/34650_initiatiefvoorstel_bergkamp |title=Initiatiefvoorstel: 34650 |access-date=14 March 2019 |archive-date=27 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327090944/https://www.eerstekamer.nl/wetsvoorstel/34650_initiatiefvoorstel_bergkamp |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, a [[motion (parliamentary procedure)|motion]] was passed (123–27) that requested the [[Third Rutte cabinet|Rutte Government]] to investigate whether it is possible to replace the term "heterosexual or homosexual orientation" with the term "sexual orientation" to include all orientations, including bisexual and asexual people.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.tweedekamer.nl/kamerstukken/moties/detail?id=2018Z12915&did=2018D37145 |title=Gewijzigde motie van Jasper van Dijk c.s. over de term "seksuele gerichtheid" in de Algemene wet gelijke behandeling |author1=Jasper van Dijk |author2=D. Yesilgoz-Zegerius |author3=Kathalijne Buitenweg |website=Tweede Kamer |access-date=July 5, 2023 |archive-date=27 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327102800/https://www.tweedekamer.nl/kamerstukken/moties/detail?id=2018Z12915&did=2018D37145}}</ref>

Recently, a loophole was fixed in the ''Equal Treatment Act 1994''. Before this, government-financed religious schools were not allowed to fire or deny promotions to teachers on the "single fact" of someone's sexual orientation. However, some schools had interpreted this so that they could fire a teacher for behaviours outside of the facility that went against the ethos of the school. This resulted in the termination of a teacher in 2005 for being in a same-sex relationship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2009/06/12/leaked-dutch-report-says-schools-can-ban-gay-teachers/|title=Leaked Dutch report says schools can ban gay teachers|work=PinkNews|date=12 June 2009|access-date=14 January 2015|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327112109/https://www.pinknews.co.uk/2009/06/12/leaked-dutch-report-says-schools-can-ban-gay-teachers/|url-status=live}}</ref> This was called ''de enkelefeitconstructie'' ("the single fact construction"). A bill that removed the "single fact" rule and ensured that LGBTQ students and teachers cannot be fired because of their sexual orientation was debated in Parliament in 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://rm.coe.int/16802f14e1|title=LGBT and Gender Equality Policy Plan of the Netherlands 2011-2015|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809170902/https://rm.coe.int/16802f14e1|url-status=live}}</ref> On 27 May 2014, this bill was approved by the vast majority of the House of Representatives (141–9) and on 10 March 2015 the bill was approved by the Senate (72–3). It went into full effect on 1 July 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eerstekamer.nl/wetsvoorstel/32476_initiatiefvoorstel_bergkamp|title=Eerste Kamer der Staten-Generaal – Initiatiefvoorstel-Bergkamp, Van Ark, Yücel, Jasper van Dijk en Klaver Annuleren enkele-feitconstructie in de Algemene wet gelijke behandeling (32.476)|website=eerstekamer.nl|access-date=18 June 2015|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327101257/https://www.eerstekamer.nl/wetsvoorstel/32476_initiatiefvoorstel_bergkamp|url-status=live}}</ref>

A proposal to add disability and sexual orientation as prohibited grounds for discrimination to Article 1 of the [[Constitution of the Netherlands]] was approved in the House of Representatives on 30 June 2020 (124 to 26) and in the Senate on 9 February 2021 (58 to 15). The measure required approval by the House and Senate by a two-thirds majority following the [[2021 Dutch general election|March 2021 election]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eerstekamer.nl/wetsvoorstel/32411_initiatiefvoorstel_bergkamp|title=32.411 – Initiatiefvoorstel-Bergkamp, Özütok en Van den Hul Handicap en seksuele gerichtheid als non-discriminatiegrond|website=eerstekamer.nl|access-date=21 March 2021|archive-date=26 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226220821/https://www.eerstekamer.nl/wetsvoorstel/32411_initiatiefvoorstel_bergkamp|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.out.com/politics/2020/7/08/netherlands-move-put-lgbtq-rights-constitution|title=The Netherlands Move To Put LGBTQ+ Rights in Constitution|website=out.com|date=10 February 2021|access-date=21 March 2021|archive-date=22 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122225318/https://www.out.com/politics/2020/7/08/netherlands-move-put-lgbtq-rights-constitution|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2021/02/senate-backs-constitutional-ban-on-lgbt-and-disability-discrimination/|title=Senate backs constitutional ban on LGBT and disability discrimination|website=dutchnews.nl|date=10 February 2021|access-date=21 March 2021|archive-date=28 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210328162638/https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2021/02/senate-backs-constitutional-ban-on-lgbt-and-disability-discrimination/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 15 March 2022, the House of Representatives passed the same proposal a second time by a vote of 123 to 25 with 2 members not present.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.tweedekamer.nl/kamerstukken/detail?id=2021Z03651&did=2021D15323 |title=Brief van het lid Bergkamp inzake overname van de verdediging van het initiatiefvoorstel |website=Tweede Kamer |language=Dutch |date=15 March 2022 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221016221209/https://www.tweedekamer.nl/kamerstukken/detail?id=2021Z03651&did=2021D15323 |archive-date=October 16, 2022}}</ref> It moved to the Senate for its second vote.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.coc.nl/politiek-2/geweldig-tweede-kamer-stemt-voor-verankering-lhbti-rechten-in-de-grondwet |title=Geweldig: Tweede Kamer stemt voor verankering LHBTI rechten in de Grondwet! |website=COC |language=Dutch |date=15 March 2022 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220315153450/https://www.coc.nl/politiek-2/geweldig-tweede-kamer-stemt-voor-verankering-lhbti-rechten-in-de-grondwet |archive-date=March 15, 2022}}</ref> On 17 January 2023, the bill was approved by the vast majority of the Senate (56–15) and awaited royal assent.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/dutch-amend-constitution-specify-gay-disabled-protections-2023-01-17/ |title=Dutch amend constitution to specify gay, disabled protections |date=January 17, 2023 |website=Reuters |access-date=July 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230117163519/https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/dutch-amend-constitution-specify-gay-disabled-protections-2023-01-17/ |archive-date=January 17, 2023}}</ref> Since February 2023, both sexual orientation and disability were formally added to the Netherlands Constitution.

A 2018 survey by [[Statistics Netherlands]] showed that 11.4% of LGBTQ youth were confronted with online bullying and harassment. This was more than twice as often as heterosexual young people.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbs.nl/nl-nl/nieuws/2020/02/meisjes-vaker-dan-jongens-last-van-online-stalken-of-laster|title=Meisjes vaker dan jongens last van online stalken of laster|work=CBS|date=10 January 2020|language=nl|access-date=25 April 2021|archive-date=25 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210425163426/https://www.cbs.nl/nl-nl/nieuws/2020/02/meisjes-vaker-dan-jongens-last-van-online-stalken-of-laster|url-status=live}}</ref> A survey by the knowledge institute Movisie showed that there were an estimated 900 to 2000 homeless LGBTQ youth in the Netherlands in 2020. LGBTQ young people were three times as likely to be homeless that young heterosexual people. Movisie said that "LGBTI youth are often rejected at home and have difficulties accepting themselves".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.coc.nl/jouw-belangen/dak-en-thuisloze-lhbti-jongeren-zijn-driedubbel-kwetsbaar|title=Dak- en thuisloze LHBTI- jongeren zijn driedubbel kwetsbaar|work=COC|date=18 June 2020|language=nl|access-date=25 April 2021|archive-date=25 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210425163426/https://www.coc.nl/jouw-belangen/dak-en-thuisloze-lhbti-jongeren-zijn-driedubbel-kwetsbaar|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Transgender and intersex rights==
The Dutch parliament voted in favour of the law establishing the right of transgender people to change their legal gender in 1984 and 1985. The law required individuals to undergo [[gender-affirming surgery]] and forced [[Sterilization (medicine)|sterilization]] in order to use this right.<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--not stated--> |date= 5 September 1984|title= Transseksueel kan akten laten wijzigen|url= |work= Trouw|location= |access-date=}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=<!--not stated--> |date= 1 August 1985|title= Wijziging geboorteakten transseksuelen mogelijk|url= |work= De Telegraaf|location= |access-date=}}</ref>

In December 2013, the Dutch Parliament overwhelmingly approved a bill allowing transgender people to legally change their gender on birth certificates and other official documents without undergoing sterilization and [[gender-affirming surgery]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/dutch-transgender-rights-bill_n_4475212|title=A Huge Breakthrough for the Dutch Transgender Community|first=Michael K. Lavers Washington|last=Blade|date=19 December 2013|website=HuffPost|access-date=19 May 2020|archive-date=26 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200426052730/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/12/19/dutch-transgender-rights-bill_n_4475212.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The law took effect in 2014. Additionally, transgender people are allowed to serve openly in the military.

Since 1993,<ref name="cannotbedetermined"/> it has been possible to state on a [[birth certificate]] "sex cannot be determined" when the sex of a newborn baby is unclear. On 28 May 2018, the District Court of [[Limburg (Netherlands)|Limburg]] ruled in favour of a Dutch citizen who wished to be recognized as a "[[third gender]]" on their birth certificate. Although current laws do not provide for the possibility to be registered as a "third gender", the judge did grant the request for the wording "sex cannot be determined". The court urged lawmakers to provide more options than the current generic "male" (''man'') and "female" (''vrouw'') boxes, because the absence of a gender-neutral option is a violation of private life, the right to self-determination and personal autonomy for both [[transgender]] and [[intersex]] persons.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://uitspraken.rechtspraak.nl/inziendocument?id=ECLI:NL:RBLIM:2018:4931|title=ECLI:NL:RBLIM:2018:4931|language=nl|access-date=9 June 2018|archive-date=16 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616190017/https://uitspraken.rechtspraak.nl/inziendocument?id=ECLI:NL:RBLIM:2018:4931|url-status=live}}</ref> The Dutch Government is currently examining the legal consequences of the ruling.<ref name="hrw">{{cite web|url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2018/06/01/dutch-court-signals-need-gender-neutral-option|title=Dutch Court Signals Need for Gender Neutral Option|date=1 June 2018|publisher=Human Rights Watch|access-date=4 June 2018|archive-date=29 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180629013834/https://www.hrw.org/news/2018/06/01/dutch-court-signals-need-gender-neutral-option|url-status=live}}</ref> The plaintiff in the case, Leonne Zeegers, received a [[Dutch passport]] with an "[[Legal recognition of non-binary gender|X]]" sex descriptor in October 2018. Despite this, as no legislation has been enacted yet, it currently remains a matter for the courts to decide if an individual should receive an "X" designation for gender.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-45914813|title=First Dutch gender-neutral passport issued|publisher=BBC News|date=19 October 2018|access-date=7 November 2018|archive-date=27 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190227224042/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-45914813|url-status=live}}</ref> The second person to receive an "X" sex marker, Nanoah Struik, did so in July 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.coc.nl/homepage/tweede-volwassene-krijgt-x-in-paspoort|title=Tweede volwassene krijgt X in paspoort|work=COC|date=29 July 2019|language=nl|access-date=23 February 2020|archive-date=23 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223185134/https://www.coc.nl/homepage/tweede-volwassene-krijgt-x-in-paspoort|url-status=live}}</ref> According to the Social and Cultural Planning Office of the Netherlands, there are an estimated 80,000 intersex people in the Netherlands.<ref name="cannotbedetermined"/>

In December 2019, the House of Representatives unanimously adopted a motion presented by [[Vera Bergkamp]] and [[Kirsten van den Hul]] calling on the Dutch Government to investigate the extent of [[intersex medical intervention]]s in the Netherlands.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.coc.nl/homepage/onderzoek-naar-onvrijwillige-behandeling-intersekse-kinderen|title=Onderzoek naar onvrijwillige behandeling intersekse kinderen|work=COC|date=4 December 2019|language=nl|access-date=23 February 2020|archive-date=7 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191207160000/https://www.coc.nl/homepage/onderzoek-naar-onvrijwillige-behandeling-intersekse-kinderen|url-status=live}}</ref>

In February 2020, a class-action lawsuit was filed against the Dutch Government over previous sterilisation requirements for transgender individuals. The plaintiffs are also calling on the state to offer compensation to the individuals who were sterilised under the law. A formal apology was issued by the state in December 2020,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pinknews.co.uk/2020/02/17/trans-woman-netherlands-sterilisation-lawsuit-willemijn-van-kempen/|title=Trans woman wants an apology from Netherlands government after she was forced into being sterilised|work=PinkNews|date=17 February 2020|last=Kelleher|first=Patrick|access-date=22 February 2020|archive-date=22 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222004225/https://www.pinknews.co.uk/2020/02/17/trans-woman-netherlands-sterilisation-lawsuit-willemijn-van-kempen/|url-status=live}}</ref> and a [[Financial compensation|compensation]] scheme for transgender victims of sterilization (€5,000 for each of the estimated 2,000 victims) was implemented that same month.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-netherlands-lgbt-sterilisation/netherlands-to-compensate-trans-victims-of-forced-sterilisation-idUSKBN28B5UX|title=Netherlands to compensate trans victims of forced sterilisation|work=Reuters|date=1 December 2020|last=Schaps|first=Karolin|access-date=2 December 2020|archive-date=1 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201204241/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-netherlands-lgbt-sterilisation/netherlands-to-compensate-trans-victims-of-forced-sterilisation-idUSKBN28B5UX|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pinknews.co.uk/2020/12/02/the-netherlands-trans-sterilisation-apology-government-willemijn-van-kempen/|title=The Netherlands finally apologises after years of forcing trans people to undergo sterilisation to gain legal recognition|work=PinkNews|date=2 December 2020|last=Kelleher|first=Patrick|access-date=2 December 2020|archive-date=2 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202095455/https://www.pinknews.co.uk/2020/12/02/the-netherlands-trans-sterilisation-apology-government-willemijn-van-kempen/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In July 2020, it was announced that the Netherlands was considering abolishing gender markers on official identity documents from 2025.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/07/08/netherlands-sees-no-role-gender-marker-id-documents|title=Netherlands Sees No Role for Gender Marker on ID Documents|publisher=Human Rights Watch|date=8 July 2020|access-date=13 July 2020|archive-date=8 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200708190104/https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/07/08/netherlands-sees-no-role-gender-marker-id-documents|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2020/07/netherlands-plans-remove-gender-id-cards-entirely/|title=Netherlands plans to remove gender from ID cards entirely|work=LGBTQ Nation|date=12 July 2020|last=Bollinger|first=Alex|access-date=13 July 2020|archive-date=12 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200712214709/https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2020/07/netherlands-plans-remove-gender-id-cards-entirely/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-netherlands-lgbt-lawmaking-idUSKBN24A1UN|title=M, F, nothing? Netherlands mulls erasing gender from ID cards|work=Reuters|last=Savage|first=Rachel|date=8 July 2020|access-date=25 April 2021|archive-date=25 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210425005947/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-netherlands-lgbt-lawmaking-idUSKBN24A1UN|url-status=live}}</ref>

In November 2020, the Dutch cabinet officially apologized for the fact that between 1985 and 2014, transgender people who wanted to change their legal gender were forced to undergo surgery and sterilization.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nos.nl/artikel/2358741-kabinet-maakt-excuses-voor-oude-transgenderwet|title=Kabinet maakt excuses voor oude Transgenderwet|first=|last=|date=30 November 2020|website=NOS.nl|access-date=30 January 2023|archive-date=18 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210918181531/https://nos.nl/artikel/2358741-kabinet-maakt-excuses-voor-oude-transgenderwet|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2021 the cabinet announced that individuals who underwent surgery and sterilization because of the 1985 law would become eligible to receive compensation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nos.nl/artikel/2407276-excuses-kabinet-transgenderwet-was-mensonterend|title=Excuses kabinet: 'Transgenderwet was mensonterend'|first=|last=|date=27 November 2021|website=NOS.nl|access-date=30 January 2023|archive-date=5 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220905091559/https://nos.nl/artikel/2407276-excuses-kabinet-transgenderwet-was-mensonterend}}</ref>

In July 2021, a [[district court]] granted and allowed a gender X [[birth certificate]] to a "self-identified non-binary individual". All non-binary people may now use a gender X birth certificate.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-07-21|title=Non-binaire personen mogen X als geslachtsaanduiding op geboorteakte|url=https://www.nu.nl/binnenland/6146942/non-binaire-personen-mogen-x-als-geslachtsaanduiding-op-geboorteakte.html|access-date=2021-07-26|website=NU|language=nl|archive-date=26 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210726120356/https://www.nu.nl/binnenland/6146942/non-binaire-personen-mogen-x-als-geslachtsaanduiding-op-geboorteakte.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

In December 2021, a court ruling dropped psychologist certification for [[Non-binary gender|non-binary]] people to use the X gender marker in passports.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2021/12/court-rules-non-binary-person-can-be-x-without-providing-expert-opinion/ |title=Court rules non-binary person can be X, without providing expert opinion |publisher=DutchNews.nl |date=2021-12-23 |access-date=2022-01-07 |archive-date=23 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211223153446/https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2021/12/court-rules-non-binary-person-can-be-x-without-providing-expert-opinion/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The Dutch [[Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport]] publishes guidelines recommending the use of puberty blockers in transgender adolescents of at least Tanner Stage II with informed consent and approval of an endocrinologist.<ref name="DutchMinistry2016">{{cite web | url=https://richtlijnendatabase.nl/gerelateerde_documenten/f/19927/Kwaliteitsstandaard%20Transgenderzorg%20-%20Somatisch.pdf | title=Kwaliteitsstandaard Transgenderzorg -Somatisch | access-date=10 April 2024 | archive-date=1 April 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401073534/https://richtlijnendatabase.nl/gerelateerde_documenten/f/19927/Kwaliteitsstandaard%20Transgenderzorg%20-%20Somatisch.pdf | url-status=dead }}</ref> This guideline, published in 2016, is endorsed by the following Dutch medical organizations:

* Nederlands Internisten Vereniging (Dutch Internists Association)<ref name="DutchMinistry2016"/>
* Nederlands Huisartsen Genootschap (Dutch Society of General Practitioners)<ref name="DutchMinistry2016"/>
* Nederlands Instituut van Psychologen (Dutch Institute of Psychologists)<ref name="DutchMinistry2016"/>
* Nederlandse Vereniging voor Kindergeneeskunde (Dutch Association for Pediatrics)<ref name="DutchMinistry2016"/>
* Nederlandse Vereniging voor Obstetrie & Gynaecologie (Dutch Association for Obstetrics & Gynaecology)<ref name="DutchMinistry2016"/>
* Nederlandse Vereniging voor Plastische Chirurgie (Dutch Association for Plastic Surgery)<ref name="DutchMinistry2016"/>
* Nederlandse Vereniging voor Psychiatrie (Dutch Psychiatry Association)<ref name="DutchMinistry2016"/>
* Transvisie (Transvision, a patient organization for transgender patients)<ref name="DutchMinistry2016"/>

In May 2023,  then Dutch Ambassador to the U.S. [[André Haspels]] reaffirmed the Netherlands’ global commitment to LGBTQ and intersex rights during a showcase of the [[Amsterdam Rainbow Dress]] at the [[Lincoln Memorial]]. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-05-15 |title=52-foot tall Amsterdam Rainbow Dress on display in DC |url=https://www.fox5dc.com/news/52-foot-tall-amsterdam-rainbow-dress-on-display-in-dc |access-date=2025-05-27 |website=FOX 5 DC |language=en-US}}</ref>The 52-foot dress, featuring flags from 68 countries where same-sex relations remain criminalized, symbolizes solidarity and advocacy. Haspels emphasized the importance of continued dialogue, acknowledging progress needed both in the U.S. and the Netherlands, particularly in areas such as intersex rights, legal gender recognition, and banning conversion practices.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lavers |first=Michael K. |date=2023-05-17 |title=Dutch ambassador to U.S. reaffirms country's commitment to LGBTQ, intersex rights |url=https://www.washingtonblade.com/2023/05/17/dutch-ambassador-to-u-s-reaffirms-countrys-commitment-to-lgbtq-intersex-rights/,%20https://www.washingtonblade.com/2023/05/17/dutch-ambassador-to-u-s-reaffirms-countrys-commitment-to-lgbtq-intersex-rights/ |access-date=2025-05-27 |website=www.washingtonblade.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

==Conversion therapy==
Organizations offering [[conversion therapy]], the [[pseudoscientific]] practice of attempting to change an individual's [[sexual orientation]] or [[gender identity]] using psychological or spiritual interventions, in the Netherlands are not eligible for subsidies.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Dirks |first1=Bart |title=Christelijke stichting verliest toch homo-subsidie |url=https://www.volkskrant.nl/nieuws-achtergrond/christelijke-stichting-verliest-toch-homo-subsidie~bd7f062f/ |website=de Volkskrant |date=8 January 2009 |language=nl-NL |access-date=24 June 2018 |archive-date=27 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327091530/https://www.volkskrant.nl/nieuws-achtergrond/christelijke-stichting-verliest-toch-homo-subsidie~bd7f062f/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, since June 2012, conversion therapies have been blocked from coverage by healthcare insurance.<ref>{{cite web |last1=De Wever |first1=Robin |title=Alleen stoppen met vergoeding homotherapie is niet genoeg |url=https://www.trouw.nl/home/-alleen-stoppen-met-vergoeding-homotherapie-is-niet-genoeg-~a778a901/ |website=Trouw |date=7 June 2012 |language=nl-NL |access-date=24 June 2018 |archive-date=24 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180624092855/https://www.trouw.nl/home/-alleen-stoppen-met-vergoeding-homotherapie-is-niet-genoeg-~a778a901/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 17 May 2019, after television programme {{lang|nl|Ewout & homogenezing}}, which was broadcast on [[RTL 5]] on 23 April 2019, showed that several organisations, including Dutch Pentecostal and Baptist groups, were offering conversion therapy, the [[Labour Party (Netherlands)|Labour Party]] (PvdA) and [[Democrats 66]] (D66) requested an investigation into the allegations. In May 2019, the [[Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport|Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport]], [[Hugo de Jonge]], informed the House of Representatives that he saw no need to ban conversion therapies in the Netherlands, adding that he was not planning to commission an "in-depth and independent investigation" into the extent to which young people in the Netherlands are exposed to such practices.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gaysite.nl/actueel/2019/05/weer-geen-verbod-op-homogenezing|title=Weer geen verbod op 'homogenezing'|work=GaySite.nl|date=17 May 2019|language=nl|access-date=5 June 2019|archive-date=5 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605112955/https://www.gaysite.nl/actueel/2019/05/weer-geen-verbod-op-homogenezing|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 22 May 2019, the [[House of Representatives (Netherlands)|House of Representatives]] adopted a motion to investigate the extent of gay conversion therapy in the Netherlands. The motion was supported by D66, [[GroenLinks]] (GL) and the PvdA, while the [[Christian Union (Netherlands)|ChristenUnie]] (CU), the [[Reformed Political Party]] (SGP) and the [[Party for Freedom]] (PVV) voted against.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gaysite.nl/actueel/2019/05/toch-onderzoek-naar-homogenezing|title=Toch onderzoek naar 'homogenezing'|work=GaySite.nl|date=22 May 2019|language=nl|access-date=5 June 2019|archive-date=5 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605112946/https://www.gaysite.nl/actueel/2019/05/toch-onderzoek-naar-homogenezing|url-status=live}}</ref> On 29 May, the House of Representatives adopted another motion; this time calling on the [[List of Ministers of Justice of the Netherlands|Minister of Justice and Security]], [[Ferdinand Grapperhaus]], to create a legislative proposal to explicitly ban conversion therapy. Parliamentarians called such 'treatments' "indigestible" and "harmful". The motion was proposed by the [[People's Party for Freedom and Democracy]] (VVD), and was supported by the VVD themselves, D66, GL, PvdA and the [[Socialist Party (Netherlands)|Socialist Party]] (SP), while the [[Christian Democratic Appeal]] (CDA), CU, PVV, SGP and [[Forum for Democracy]] (FvD) voted against. The adopted motion does not provide for a timetable.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gaysite.nl/actueel/2019/05/kamer-wil-verbod-op-homogenezing|title=Kamer wil verbod op 'homogenezing'|work=GaySite.nl|date=28 May 2019|language=nl|access-date=5 June 2019|archive-date=5 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605112948/https://www.gaysite.nl/actueel/2019/05/kamer-wil-verbod-op-homogenezing|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Health and blood donation==
{{See also|Blood donation restrictions on men who have sex with men}}
In the Netherlands, as in many other countries, [[men who have sex with men]] (MSM) were previously not allowed to donate blood.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hiv: risicofactoren voor mannen |url=http://www.sanquin.nl/bloed-geven/bloeddonor-worden/aanmeldingsprocedure/bloed-wordt-getest/hiv/risicofactoren-mannen/ |publisher=Sanquin Bloedvoorziening |language=nl |access-date=10 August 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150406171039/http://www.sanquin.nl/bloed-geven/bloeddonor-worden/aanmeldingsprocedure/bloed-wordt-getest/hiv/risicofactoren-mannen/ |archive-date= 6 April 2015 }}</ref> The MSM population in developed countries tends to have a relatively high prevalence of [[HIV/AIDS]] infection,<ref>{{cite book|title=2006 Report on the global AIDS epidemic|date=December 2006|publisher=UNAIDS|url=http://data.unaids.org/pub/GlobalReport/2006/2006_GR_CH05_en.pdf|chapter=5|access-date=10 August 2014|archive-date=15 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215205543/http://data.unaids.org/pub/globalreport/2006/2006_gr_ch05_en.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> so a blanket ban was enforced until 2015. In April 2012, the House of Representatives voted on a motion that would make an end to this ban and would make sexual risk behaviour the criteria for blood donation; in response the government asked the blood bank Sanquin and [[Maastricht University]] to investigate whether men who have sex with men should be allowed to donate blood.<ref name="blood">{{cite web|title=Equal rights for LGBTS|url=http://www.government.nl/issues/gay-rights/equal-rights-for-gays-and-transgenders|website=government.nl|publisher=Government of the Netherlands|access-date=10 August 2014|archive-date=29 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629175841/http://www.government.nl/issues/gay-rights/equal-rights-for-gays-and-transgenders|url-status=live}}</ref> The report presented on 6 March 2015 showed that there were medical scientific grounds to adjust the donor selection policies around men who had sex with other men. This took away the main argument of safety risks. On 28 October 2015, the [[Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (Netherlands)|Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport]] announced that a 12-month deferral on donating blood would replace the existing lifetime ban.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nltimes.nl/2015/10/28/ban-lifted-gay-male-blood-donations-advocates-critical-new-restrictions|title=Ban lifted on gay male blood donations; Advocates critical of new restrictions|date=28 October 2015|website=NL Times|access-date=19 May 2020|archive-date=7 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220107011039/https://nltimes.nl/2015/10/28/ban-lifted-gay-male-blood-donations-advocates-critical-new-restrictions|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="pinknews">{{cite web|first1=Joe|last1=Williams|title=Netherlands ends liftime blood ban on gay and bisexual men|url=http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2015/10/29/holland-ends-liftime-blood-ban-on-gay-and-bisexual-men/|website=PinkNews|date=2015-10-29|access-date=2016-02-07|archive-date=1 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401105244/https://www.pinknews.co.uk/2015/10/29/holland-ends-liftime-blood-ban-on-gay-and-bisexual-men/|url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2019, the Sanquin blood bank shortened this period to 4 months.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://nltimes.nl/2021/09/01/gay-men-monogamous-relationships-can-now-donate-blood-nl |title=Gay men in monogamous relationships can now donate blood in NL |date=September 1, 2021 |website=NL Times |access-date=July 6, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://dutchreview.com/dutch/gay-men-couldnt-donate-blood-in-the-netherlands/|title=Gay men couldn't donate blood in the Netherlands?|work=Dutch Review|date=15 February 2019|last=Desai|first=Kavana|access-date=23 February 2020|archive-date=7 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220107010944/https://dutchreview.com/expat/health/gay-men-couldnt-donate-blood-in-the-netherlands/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 1 August 2019, the Dutch Government introduced full coverage of [[Pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention|PrEP]] and other related care for gay and bisexual men. The drug is available at all [[Municipal Health Service]]s (GGD) offices in the country, and can drastically decrease the risk of contracting HIV. In addition, the move would save an estimated €33 million on HIV treatments.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.coc.nl/homepage/vanaf-1-augustus-prep-bij-ggd|title=Vanaf 1 augustus PrEP bij GGD|work=COC|date=28 June 2019|language=nl|access-date=25 February 2020|archive-date=25 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225195151/https://www.coc.nl/homepage/vanaf-1-augustus-prep-bij-ggd|url-status=live}}</ref>

Since September 2021, gay men within monogamous relationships in the Netherlands can legally donate blood without any waiting periods. Gay men within non-monogamous relationships have to still legally undergo a 4-month waiting period.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.iamexpat.nl/expat-info/dutch-expat-news/gay-men-monogamous-relationship-can-donate-blood-september |title=Gay men in a monogamous relationship can donate blood from September |website=I Am Expat |date=12 March 2021 |last=Séveno |first=Victoria |access-date=12 March 2021 |archive-date=12 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210312105303/https://www.iamexpat.nl/expat-info/dutch-expat-news/gay-men-monogamous-relationship-can-donate-blood-september}}</ref>

==Uganda relations==
In May 2023, the Netherlands immediately stopped cooperation, political relationships and trade with Uganda following the passage of the [[Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023|Anti-Homosexuality Act]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://cne.news/article/3128-dutch-government-halts-cooperation-with-uganda-over-anti-lgbt-legislation |title=Dutch government halts cooperation with Uganda over anti-LGBT legislation |date=May 30, 2023 |website=CNE |access-date=July 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230531034213/https://cne.news/article/3128-dutch-government-halts-cooperation-with-uganda-over-anti-lgbt-legislation |archive-date=May 31, 2023}}</ref>

==Public opinion==
{{Expand section|polling on transgender rights|date=July 2022|small=no}}
According to a poll conducted in May 2013, [[Ifop]] indicated that 85% of the Dutch population supported same-sex marriage and adoption.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ifop.com/media/poll/2255-1-study_file.pdf |title=Enquête sur la droitisation des opinions publiques européennes |trans-title=Investigation into the rightization of European public opinions |date=June 2013 |website=IFOP – Institut d’études opinion et marketing en France et à l’international |language=fr |access-date=2015-05-26 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160201082402/http://www.ifop.com/media/poll/2255-1-study_file.pdf |archive-date= 1 February 2016 }}</ref> A [[European Union]] member poll conducted in 2015 indicated that 91% of the Netherlands supported same-sex marriage, which was the highest amount of support during that time.<ref name="EU2015">{{cite web|url=http://www.equineteurope.org/IMG/pdf/ebs_437_en.pdf |title=Special Eurobarometer 437: Discrimination in the EU in 2015 |date=October 2015 |publisher=[[European Commission]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122075042/http://www.equineteurope.org/IMG/pdf/ebs_437_en.pdf |archive-date=22 January 2016 }}</ref> In the Caribbean territories of the Kingdom, the citizens are mostly religious, resulting in larger opposition to same-sex marriage in comparison to the European territory.

The 2019 [[Eurobarometer]] showed that 97% of Dutch people believed gay and bisexual people should enjoy the same rights as heterosexual people, and 92% supported same-sex marriage.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ec.europa.eu/commfrontoffice/publicopinion/index.cfm/ResultDoc/download/DocumentKy/87771|title=Eurobarometer on Discrimination 2019: The social acceptance of LGBTI people in the EU|publisher=European Commission|work=TNS|access-date=23 September 2019|page=2|archive-date=16 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200216133347/https://ec.europa.eu/commfrontoffice/publicopinion/index.cfm/ResultDoc/download/DocumentKy/87771|url-status=live}}</ref>

The 2023 Eurobarometer found that 94% of Dutch people thought same-sex marriage should be allowed throughout Europe, and 94% agreed that "there is nothing wrong in a sexual relationship between two persons of the same sex". It also found that 91% of Dutch people agreed that "transgender people should have the same rights as anyone else," and 84% of people thought that "transgender persons should be able to change their civil documents to match their gender identity."<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 December 2023 |title=Discrimination in the EU_sp535_volumeA.xlsx [QB15_2] and [QB15_3] |url=https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/ebsm/api/public/odp/download?key=357D4B83D1BE42F7D20030592A2E8DE4 |access-date=29 December 2023 |website=data.europa.eu |format=xls}}</ref>

==Living conditions and civil society==
[[File:Demonstratie tegen wetsartikelen over homofilie contacten op het Binnenhof jonge, Bestanddeelnr 922-0285.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The first gay demonstration in the Netherlands, [[Binnenhof]], 21 January 1969]]
[[File:PvdAboot op de Amsterdam Gay Parade 2014 (14823067801).jpg|thumb|250px|right|[[Amsterdam Gay Pride]] 2014]]
[[File:Boat 10 My Pride My Family, Canal Parade Amsterdam 2017 foto 4.JPG|250px|thumb|right|Amsterdam Pride attracts thousands of people every year. It includes a parade of boats, as shown here in 2017.]]

The first gay bars in [[Amsterdam]] opened in the early 20th century. The oldest place that still exists today is [[Café 't Mandje]], which was opened in 1927 by [[Bet van Beeren]]. The gay magazine ''Wij'' ("We") also published during this period.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.fmg.uva.nl/gl/gaybar.html|title=The Amsterdam Bar Culture And Changing Gay/Lesbian Identities|date=March 2005|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050306020448/http://www2.fmg.uva.nl/gl/gaybar.html|archive-date=6 March 2005}}</ref> Many of these bars and establishments were shut down during the [[Netherlands in World War II|German occupation of the Netherlands]], and with the introduction of [[Paragraph 175]] into Dutch law same-sex sexual activity was criminalized. Following the end of the war, the [[COC Nederland|Shakespeare Club]] was established, with the goals of social emancipation and offering culture and recreation for gay and lesbian people. It changed its name to {{lang|nl|Cultuur- en Ontspanningscentrum}} in 1949 and eventually in 2017 to COC Nederland. It is the oldest existing LGBTQ organization in the world. During the [[sexual revolution]] of the 1960s, many gay bars and clubs opened in a number of cities, and societal acceptance of LGBTQ people began to grow. The first gay and lesbian protest in the Netherlands took place on 21 January 1969 at the [[Binnenhof]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.coc.nl/algemeen/veel-bereikt-sinds-eerste-lhbti-demonstratie-in-1969|title=Veel bereikt sinds eerste LHBTI-demonstratie in 1969|work=COC Nederland|date=20 January 2019|language=nl|access-date=9 June 2020|archive-date=9 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200609130327/https://www.coc.nl/algemeen/veel-bereikt-sinds-eerste-lhbti-demonstratie-in-1969|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1977, LGBTQ groups began organising annual marches under the name Pink Saturday (''{{ill|Roze Zaterdag|nl}}''). In 1987, the world's first gay memorial, the [[Homomonument]], commemorating LGBTQ people persecuted during the Nazi period, was opened in Amsterdam.

The Netherlands has frequently been referred to as one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world,<ref>{{cite news|last1=McDaid|first1=Mark|title=The Netherlands is one of Europe's most gay-friendly nations|url=http://www.iamexpat.nl/read-and-discuss/expat-page/news/netherlands-one-of-europes-most-gay-friendly-nations|access-date=10 August 2014|publisher=IamExpat|date=20 May 2013|location=Netherlands|archive-date=10 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170510225100/http://www.iamexpat.nl/read-and-discuss/expat-page/news/netherlands-one-of-europes-most-gay-friendly-nations|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Baird-Remba|first1=Rebecca|title=13 Countries That ArMore Gay Friendly Than America|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/worlds-most-gay-friendly-countries-2013-3?op=1|access-date=10 August 2014|work=Business Insider|publisher=Business Insider Inc.|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327101351/https://www.businessinsider.com/worlds-most-gay-friendly-countries-2013-3?op=1|url-status=live}}</ref> on account of its early adoption of LGBTQ rights legislation and tolerance perception. [[Amsterdam]] has been referred to as one of the most [[gay-friendly]] cities in the world by publications such as ''[[The Independent]]''.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Field|first1=Marcus|title=The Ten Best Places in the World To Be Gay|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/love-sex/taboo-tolerance/the-ten-best-places-in-the-world-to-be-gay-932557.html?action=gallery&ino=7|access-date=10 August 2014|work=The Independent|date=17 September 2008|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327091436/https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/love-sex/taboo-tolerance/the-ten-best-places-in-the-world-to-be-gay-932557.html?action=gallery&ino=7|url-status=live}}</ref> The [[Amsterdam Gay Pride|annual gay pride festival]] has been held in Amsterdam every year since 1996.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.amsterdamgaypride.nl |title=Amsterdam Gay Pride |publisher=Amsterdamgaypride.nl |access-date=9 January 2011 |archive-date=6 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506081909/https://www.amsterdamgaypride.nl/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The festival attracts several hundred-thousand visitors each year and thus one of the largest publicly held annual events in the Netherlands. Amsterdam has also been the host city of the [[Europride]] twice, in 1994 and 2016. The latter attracted more than 560,000 visitors. Besides Amsterdam, there are also visible gay scenes in [[Rotterdam]], [[Utrecht]], [[The Hague]] and [[Scheveningen]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.holland.com/global/tourism/destinations/amsterdam/outside-amsterdam-gay-guide.htm|title=Outside Amsterdam: Gay Guide|date=17 March 2016|website=holland.com|access-date=7 November 2018|archive-date=7 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107224859/https://www.holland.com/global/tourism/destinations/amsterdam/outside-amsterdam-gay-guide.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> with several bars, saunas and clubs catering to gay clientele.

A 2013 survey showed that 93% of Dutch people believed homosexuals should live their lives as they wish, with just 4% believing that homosexuality should be rejected. Other opinion polls have also found high levels of public and societal acceptance of LGBTQ people, again leading many to call the Netherlands one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.iamexpat.nl/expat-info/dutch-expat-news/netherlands-one-of-europes-most-gay-friendly-nations|title=The Netherlands is one of Europe's most gay-friendly nations|website=iamexpat.nl|access-date=19 May 2020|archive-date=29 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211229153424/https://www.iamexpat.nl/expat-info/dutch-expat-news/netherlands-one-of-europes-most-gay-friendly-nations|url-status=live}}</ref> According to a 2016 report from the Netherlands Institute for Social Research, most Dutch people have a positive attitude towards homosexuality. Only 7% of the Dutch viewed homosexuality and bisexuality negatively and 10% viewed transgender people negatively. However, 3.8% of gays and lesbians were victims of violence, compared to 2.4% of heterosexuals. And 32% of the respondents stated they would take offence when seeing two men kiss and 23% when seeing two women kiss (and 12% when seeing two people of the opposite sex kiss).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.scp.nl/Publicaties/Alle_publicaties/Publicaties_2016/LHBT_monitor_2016|title=LGBT Monitor 2016|access-date=27 July 2017|archive-date=11 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181111182813/https://www.scp.nl/Publicaties/Alle_publicaties/Publicaties_2016/LHBT_monitor_2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In April 2017, a same-sex couple was attacked by a group of [[Morocco|Moroccan]] youth in the city of [[Arnhem]]. After the attack, several politicians, police officers, priests and many others showed their opposition to violence against LGBTQ people by holding hands in public. Displays also occurred in other countries, namely the [[United Kingdom]], the [[United States]] and [[Australia]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dw.com/en/dutch-men-hold-hands-against-anti-lgbt-violence/a-38314715|title=Dutch men hold hands against anti-LGBT violence &#124; DW &#124; 05.04.2017|website=Deutsche Welle|access-date=19 May 2020|archive-date=3 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180403114249/http://www.dw.com/en/dutch-men-hold-hands-against-anti-lgbt-violence/a-38314715|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2017/04/coc-calls-for-action-against-rising-tide-of-homophobic-attacks/|title=Coalition negotiators condemn anti-gay violence after attack in Arnhem|date=3 April 2017|access-date=19 May 2020|archive-date=22 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171022120542/http://www.dutchnews.nl/news/archives/2017/04/coc-calls-for-action-against-rising-tide-of-homophobic-attacks/|url-status=live}}</ref> Approximately 400 to 600 attacks against LGBTQ people occurred between 2011 and 2017, according to LGBTQ group COC.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Dirks |first1=Bart |title=Christelijke stichting verliest toch homo-subsidie |url=https://www.volkskrant.nl/nieuws-achtergrond/christelijke-stichting-verliest-toch-homo-subsidie~bd7f062f/ |website=de Volkskrant |date=8 January 2009 |access-date=24 June 2018 |language=nl-NL |archive-date=27 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327091530/https://www.volkskrant.nl/nieuws-achtergrond/christelijke-stichting-verliest-toch-homo-subsidie~bd7f062f/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In September 2019, King [[Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands|Willem-Alexander]] called on the [[United Nations General Assembly|UN General Assembly]] to support LGBTQ rights. In November 2019, the Dutch Government announced it would continue to support LGBTQ rights groups worldwide. The House of Representatives voted for a motion asking that LGBTQ rights be one of the three priorities of Dutch membership at the [[United Nations Human Rights Council]]. The [[Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation (Netherlands)|Minister of Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation]], [[Sigrid Kaag]], has announced support for international LGBTQ rights groups, as well as organizations that campaign for food security, nature and climate, women's rights and freedom of expression. With Dutch support, local LGBTQ organizations in the [[Seychelles]] and [[Botswana]] were successful in having their anti-gay sodomy laws repealed or struck down.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.coc.nl/homepage/steun-aan-buitenlandse-lhbti-organisaties-topprioriteit-voor-minister-kaag|title=Steun aan buitenlandse LHBTI-organisaties topprioriteit voor minister Kaag|work=COC|date=19 November 2019|language=nl|access-date=23 February 2020|archive-date=23 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223183729/https://www.coc.nl/homepage/steun-aan-buitenlandse-lhbti-organisaties-topprioriteit-voor-minister-kaag|url-status=live}}</ref>

In July 2020, the city of [[Nieuwegein]] ended its [[Sister city|twin-city scheme]] with the Polish city of [[Puławy]] due to it enacting a "gay free zone".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/jul/16/dutch-city-ends-ties-with-polish-twin-declared-gay-free-zone-nieuwegein-pulawy|title=Dutch town ends ties with Polish twin declared 'gay-free zone'|first=Daniel|last=Boffey|date=16 July 2020|work=The Guardian|access-date=19 July 2020|archive-date=19 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719220033/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/jul/16/dutch-city-ends-ties-with-polish-twin-declared-gay-free-zone-nieuwegein-pulawy|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Summary table==
{{More citations needed section|date=January 2024}}
{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Right
!Yes/No
!Note
|-
| Same-sex sexual activity legal
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 1811
|-
| Equal age of consent (16)
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]] 
| Since 1971
|-
| Anti-discrimination laws (employment)
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 1994, since 2023 by constitutional amendment for sexual orientation 
|-
| Anti-discrimination laws (provision of goods and services)
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 1994, since 2023 by constitutional amendment for sexual orientation
|-
| Anti-discrimination laws (all other areas incl. hate speech)
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]] 
| Since 1994, since 2023 by constitutional amendment for sexual orientation
|-
| Recognition of [[same-sex relationships]]
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]] 
| Since 1998; as [[Civil union|registered partnerships]]
|-
| Same-sex marriage(s)
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 2001, [[Timeline of same-sex marriage|first country]] in the world to legalize same-sex marriages
|-
| Stepchild adoption by same-sex couples
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]] 
| Since 2001
|-
| Joint adoption by same-sex couples
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 2001
|-
| Access to IVF for lesbian couples
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 2000<ref>{{cite news|title=The Politics of Biotechnology in North America and Europe|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dUE2AAAAQBAJ&dq=June+2000,+single+women+or+lesbian+couples+were+no+longer+excluded+from+medical+treatment&pg=PA172|access-date=8 June 2022|year=2006|publisher=Lexington Books|page=172|isbn=9780739159224}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Trudie|last=Gerrits|title=Patient-Centred IVF: Bioethics and Care in a Dutch Clinic|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YYCLCwAAQBAJ&dq=Dutch+IVF+lesbian+2000&pg=PA60|access-date=8 June 2022|year=2016|publisher=Berghahn Books|page=60|isbn=9781785332272}}</ref>
|-
| International joint adoption by same-sex couples
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 2009<ref name="adoption">{{cite news |title=Dutch Civil Code Amendment Book 1, etc. (shortening adoption procedure and adoption by same-sex spouses |url=https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0024657/2009-01-01 |access-date=9 February 2020 |work=wetten.overheid.nl |publisher=Ministerie van Binnenlandse Zaken en Koninkrijksrelaties |date=2009-01-01 |language=nl |archive-date=15 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191015135029/https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0024657/2009-01-01 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| LGBTQ people allowed to serve openly in the military
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 1973 for lesbian, gay and bisexual people<br/>Since 2014 for transgender people
|-
| Right to change legal gender
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 1985. [[Gender-affirming surgery]] and [[Sterilization (medicine)|sterilization]] not required since 2014.
|-
| Automatic parenthood for both female spouses after birth
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 2014, sperm donor anonymous until child's 16th birthday<ref>{{cite web |title=Lesbisch of homo-ouderschap |url=https://www.ouders.nl/artikelen/lesbisch-of-homo-ouderschap |website=Ouders Online |access-date=7 February 2020 |language=nl-NL |date=28 May 2014 |archive-date=7 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200207005649/https://www.ouders.nl/artikelen/lesbisch-of-homo-ouderschap |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| Anti-discrimination laws covering sex characteristics, gender identity and gender expression
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 2019<ref>{{cite web |title=Besluit van 24 oktober 2019 tot vaststelling van het tijdstip van inwerkingtreding van de Wet verduidelijking rechtspositie transgender personen en intersekse personen (Stb. 2019, 302) |url=https://zoek.officielebekendmakingen.nl/stb-2019-379.html |website=Artikel II van de Wet verduidelijking rechtspositie transgender personen en intersekse personen (Stb. 2019, 302) |publisher=Ministerie van Binnenlandse Zaken |language=nl |date=31 October 2019 |access-date=7 February 2020 |archive-date=7 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200207005641/https://zoek.officielebekendmakingen.nl/stb-2019-379.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
|- 
| [[Legal recognition of non-binary gender]]
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 2018
|-
| Third gender option
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 1993 at birth: a child with ambivalent sex characteristics can register their sex as "cannot be determined". In addition, parents may choose the option "X" up to three months after the birth;<br />Since 2020 after birth: "X" sex option only available after successful court petition.<ref name="cannotbedetermined">{{cite web |title=Geen M of V, maar X: voor het eerst paspoort veranderd in genderneutraal |url=https://nos.nl/artikel/2255409-geen-m-of-v-maar-x-voor-het-eerst-paspoort-veranderd-in-genderneutraal.html |website=nos.nl |date=19 October 2018 |language=nl |access-date=7 February 2020 |archive-date=6 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200206210748/https://nos.nl/artikel/2255409-geen-m-of-v-maar-x-voor-het-eerst-paspoort-veranderd-in-genderneutraal.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| [[Gender self-identification]]
|
|
|-
| Automatic parenthood for both male spouses after surrogate childbirth
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
| Since 2020<ref>{{cite web |title=What is the difference between biological and legal parenthood? |website=Government of the Netherlands |url=https://www.government.nl/topics/family-law/question-and-answer/difference-biological-legal-parenthood |access-date=July 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302054707/https://www.government.nl/topics/family-law/question-and-answer/difference-biological-legal-parenthood |archive-date=March 2, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Vissers, Boersma |first1=Petra, Wendelmoet |title=More than two parents are still a bridge too far for the government |url=https://www.trouw.nl/binnenland/meer-dan-twee-ouders-is-voor-het-kabinet-nog-een-brug-te-ver~bf94cdb7/ |access-date=8 February 2020 |publisher=Trouw |date=12 July 2019 |language=nl-NL }}</ref>
|-
| [[Men who have sex with men|MSMs]] allowed to donate blood
| [[File:Yes check.svg|15px|Yes]]
|Since 2021, gay men within monogamous relationships are no longer subjected to the four-month waiting period.<ref name="sanquin">{{cite web |title=Bloedbank opent de deur voor MSM |url=https://www.sanquin.nl/over-sanquin/nieuws/2021/03/bloedbank-opent-de-deur-voor-msm |website=sanquin.nl |publisher=Sanquin |access-date=11 March 2021 |archive-date=11 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210311163209/https://www.sanquin.nl/over-sanquin/nieuws/2021/03/bloedbank-opent-de-deur-voor-msm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Homomannen met vaste partner mogen bloeddonor worden|url=https://nos.nl/artikel/2372219-homomannen-met-vaste-partner-mogen-bloeddonor-worden.html|website=nos.nl|date=11 March 2021 |publisher=NOS|access-date=11 March 2021|archive-date=11 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210311160333/https://nos.nl/artikel/2372219-homomannen-met-vaste-partner-mogen-bloeddonor-worden.html|url-status=live}}</ref> New guidelines suggest that from January 1, 2023, the decision will solely be based on behaviour instead of sexual-orientation.<ref>{{cite web |title=Individueel gedrag bepalende voorwaarde bloed- en plasmadonatie |url=https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2022/05/24/individueel-gedrag-bepalende-voorwaarde-bloed--en-plasmadonatie |website=rijksoverheid.nl |date=24 May 2022 |publisher=Rijksoverheid}}</ref>
|-
| Conversion therapy banned 
| [[File:X mark.svg|15px|No]] 
| Government rejected such ban,<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-05-29|title=Kabinet wil nog geen verbod op 'homogenezing', ondanks Kamermeerderheid|url=https://www.nu.nl/politiek/6136272/kabinet-wil-nog-geen-verbod-op-homogenezing-ondanks-kamermeerderheid.html|access-date=2021-06-13|website=NU|language=nl|archive-date=13 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210613190210/https://www.nu.nl/politiek/6136272/kabinet-wil-nog-geen-verbod-op-homogenezing-ondanks-kamermeerderheid.html|url-status=live}}</ref> however a new [[Right of initiative (legislative)|private member's law]] for a ban is proposed.<ref>{{cite web |title=Individueel gedrag bepalende voorwaarde bloed- en plasmadonatie |url=https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2022/05/24/individueel-gedrag-bepalende-voorwaarde-bloed--en-plasmadonatie |website=Rijksoverheid |access-date=July 6, 2023 |language=nl-NL |date=24 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220525062037/https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2022/05/24/individueel-gedrag-bepalende-voorwaarde-bloed--en-plasmadonatie |archive-date=May 25, 2022}}</ref>
|-
| Intersex minors protected from invasive surgical procedures 
| [[File:X mark.svg|15px|No]]
| 
|-
| Altruistic surrogacy for same-sex couples
|[[File:Yes check.svg|15x15px|Yes]]
| Altruistic surrogacy is legal for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples<ref>{{cite news |last1= |first1= |date= |title=Legal and illegal aspects of surrogacy |language=EN |work=[[Government of the Netherlands]] |publisher= |issue= |url=https://www.government.nl/topics/surrogate-mothers/surrogacy-legal-aspects |access-date=16 February 2023 }}</ref>
|}

==See also==
{{Portal|LGBTQ|Netherlands}}
* [[Human rights in the Netherlands]]
* [[Same-sex marriage in the Netherlands]]
* [[Same-sex marriage in Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten]]
* [[LGBTQ rights in Europe]]
* [[LGBTQ rights in the European Union]]

==References==

{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{cite web|url=http://www.glbtq.com/social-sciences/netherlands,4.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604140233/http://www.glbtq.com/social-sciences/netherlands,4.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2011-06-04|title=Netherlands LGBT Rights History|website=glbtq.com}}
* {{cite web|url=http://www.coc.nl/|title=Official website of COC Netherlands|language=nl}}
* {{cite web|url=http://gaykrant.nl/|title=Official website of De Gay Krant|language=nl}}

{{LGBT in the Netherlands}}
{{Europe in topic|Same-sex marriage in}}
{{LGBTQ rights in Europe}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Lgbt Rights in the Netherlands}}
[[Category:LGBTQ rights in the Netherlands| ]]