The list of safest countries is based on 10 factors related to LGBTQ+ safety, including protections against discrimination, criminalization of violence and illegality of same sex relationships.
Canada ranked at the top of the 2023 list as the most LGBTQ+ country in the world for the third year in the row. “Canada has a great legislative track record for LGBTQ+ rights. They were one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage, they have constitutional anti-discrimination protections and the majority of Canadians report that is a safe place to live for gay and lesbian people,” said Fergusson.
Cities like Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal have some of the largest LGBTQ+ communities and are ranked the friendliest cities in Canada.
Toronto has Canada’s largest gay community, and the Church and Wellesley Village is part of Toronto’s most vibrant and populated LGBTQ+ neighborhoods. Toronto Pride is known for its celebrations and festivities celebrating unity and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.
Montreal is another city with a large gay community. The city has Montreal Pride, the “Gay Village” and many same-sex bars and clubs. Since 1988, Montreal has hosted the LGBTQ+ film festival which educates and raises awareness about the community.
Vancouver’s LGBTQ+ community is located around Davie Street and Commercial Drive in Grandview, which is home to Qmunity, a center which provides youth and senior programs, Trans ID clinic, employment support and counselling programs to the LGBTQ+ community.
The top-ranking highlights Canada’s commitment to creating an inclusive society for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. This is especially important to newcomers to Canada who may come from countries where LGBTQ+ rights are not protected and who may be seeking a safe and welcoming environment.
Canada has a history of providing protection to and helping resettle the world’s most vulnerable groups, including those in the LBGTQ+ community. In addition, IRCC provides resources and access links to national organizations that work to promote and protect sexual orientation rights.
Canada’s top ranking demonstrates the country’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion, and the country’s continued efforts towards creating a more inclusive society for all individuals.
