Trinidad Court Overturns Homosexuality Ban

Trinidad and Tobago’s highest court struck down a 1986 law criminalising homosexuality, delivering a historic victory for LGBTQ rights across the Caribbean.

The UK-based Privy Council issued a unanimous ruling declaring that the Sexual Offences Act cannot target private, consensual relations between adults of the same sex, overturning previous penalties of up to five years in prison.

LGBTQ activist Jason Jones spearheaded the decade-long legal challenge, celebrating the decision as validation for his relentless campaign against institutional discrimination.

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Legal representatives from Freedom Law Chambers lauded the verdict as a monumental triumph for equality, human dignity, and private family life.

Trinidad court overturns homosexuality ban (News Central TV) — LGBTQ activist Jason Jones in 2018. Credit: Reuters

After the ruling, Jones announced plans to expand his advocacy to combat endemic homophobia throughout the wider Caribbean region.

The court emphasised that modern constitutional rights must remain practical and effective for contemporary society rather than reflecting outdated historical frameworks.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.