REFORM OF DISCRIMINATORY SEXUAL OFFENCES LAWS IN THE COMMONWEALTH AND OTHER JURISDICTIONS – Case Study of Northern Cyprus

This report examines how the 2014 reform of the criminal code in Northern Cyprus was successfully achieved, decriminalising same-sex activity. This report explores the vividly the important role civil society played in achieving not just legal and policy changes, but also social transformation. The work of domestic civil society groups, supported by international NGOs, was instrumental in raising awareness of the previously archaic and discriminatory provisions of the 1959 Criminal Code and advocating for change. Through intersectional collaboration and a multi-pronged strategy, applied significant political pressure in favour of reform.