LGBT rights in Malawi

LGBT rights in Malawi
LGBT rights in Malawi
	Malawi
Status	Illegal since 1891 (as British Central Africa Protectorate)
Penalty	Up to 14 years imprisonment, with or without corporal punishment for men;; Up to 5 years imprisonment for women (rarely enforced, repeal proposed);
Gender identity	No
Military	No
Discrimination protections	No
Family rights
Recognition of relationships	No recognition of same-sex unions
Adoption	No

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in Malawi face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female expressions of same-sex sexual activity are illegal within the nation. The Penal Code prohibits "carnal knowledge against the order of nature", attempts to commit "carnal knowledge against the order of nature", and acts of "gross indecency".

In late December 2009, a trans woman, Tiwonge Chimbalanga, and a man, Steven Monjeza, were arrested after holding a traditional "engagement" party. On 18 May 2010, they were found guilty of having committed "unnatural offenses" and "indecent practices between males". On 29 May 2010, then President Bingu wa Mutharika pardoned both individuals.

On 26 June 2021, the country's first ever Pride parade was held in Lilongwe, organised by the Nyasa Rainbow Alliance, with the 50+ attendees delivering a petition to the city's officials demanding marriage equality and better access to healthcare for LGBT people.

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