Gay Guide Kazakhstan

Homosexuality is legal in Kazakhstan, the age of consent is 16 for homosexual and heterosexual relationships. However, civil law describes marriage as partnership exclusively between a man and a woman, so that a gay marriage is just as impossible as some other forms of registered partnership for same-sex couples. Since the Republic of Kazakhstan achieved political independence, tolerance of sexual minorities has increased continuousily. However, this development is limited at present mostly to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, and some regional conurbations. But even in these places it is not advisable to behave openly gay outside the bars and clubs listed in this guide. In rural areas, homophobia is still predominant.