LGBT rights in East Timor
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in East Timor face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity are legal in East Timor, but same-sex couples and households headed by same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex married couples. East Timor and the Philippines are considered as leaders on human rights in Southeast Asia, including LGBT rights, although no legal protections for LGBT citizens have been enacted into law yet. In 2011, the country signed the "joint statement on ending acts of violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity" at the United Nations, condemning violence and discrimination against LGBT people. In July 2017, just 15 years after independence, the nation's first ever pride march was conducted with the support of the Timorese Government. Among the participants of the pride march were LGBT citizens, nuns, religious ministers, tribal folks, students, and government officials. The event has been held annually ever since. Law regarding same-sex sexual activity Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1975. The age of consent is 14 regardless of sexual orientation or gender. Recognition of same-sex relationships There is