Bhutan

Bhutan decriminalized consensual same-sex relations between adults on February 17, 2021, through a Penal Code reform that repealed sections 213 and 214. No legal recognition of same-sex unions exists (a gender-neutral marriage bill was debated but deferred). No specific anti-discrimination law, though sectoral protections exist in employment, education and health. Legal gender change allowed after medical note + civil society organization letter. Low-profile Buddhist country (mandatory daily fee for tourists), traditional society but not aggressive toward LGBTQI+ people; growing visibility in Thimphu since 2021, no consolidated nightlife scene.