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City, Ivory Coast

Is Abidjan LGBTQ+ friendly?

Updated October 2026Sources
3/5Tolerant, but be discreet

Is Abidjan LGBTQ+ friendly?

Not criminalized and a visible scene exists in Abidjan, but social stigma is strong and public affection is risky.

LGBTQ+ laws in Ivory Coast

Same-sex acts are not criminalised, but there is no legal protection, and social attitudes are conservative; Abidjan has a discreet scene.

Status
Same-sex relationships legalYes
Same-sex marriageNo
Civil unions or partnershipsNo
Legal gender changeNo
Anti-discrimination lawNo

LGBTQ+ friendliness across Ivory Coast

PlaceRating
Abidjan3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet
Grand-Bassam3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet

Quick answers

Is Abidjan safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?

Not criminalized and a visible scene exists in Abidjan, but social stigma is strong and public affection is risky.

Is same-sex marriage legal in Ivory Coast?

No.

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Sources

Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.