• Legal equality does not always mean social safety.
• The U.S. ranks 19th in LGBTQ+ wedding safety.
• Spain, Iceland, and Canada are top safest countries.
• Safety scores consider laws, rights, sentiment, and services.

A study by Destify analyzed 39 countries to determine the safest destinations for LGBTQ+ couples to marry, considering legal aspects, social climate, and available services. The research indicates that while same-sex marriage is legal in 30 countries, legal recognition alone does not guarantee a safe or welcoming experience for couples. News reports from the U.S. highlight challenges such as alleged abuse in detention facilities, limitations on gender-affirming care, and cultural resistance, suggesting that the social environment is as crucial as legal equality.

The United States, despite a decade of nationwide marriage equality, ranked 19th with a safety score of 70.1 out of 100. This places it behind many European and North American nations. Spain emerged as the top-ranked country with a safety score of 93.5, attributed to its 20 years of marriage equality, strong legal protections, and a high percentage of residents feeling safe being openly LGBTQ+. Iceland followed with a score of 90.2, noted for its high LGBTQ+ World Equality Index and inclusive reputation.

Canada secured the third position with 85.4, recognized for its long-standing marriage equality and a supportive social climate. Liechtenstein, which will legalize same-sex marriage in 2025, ranked at the bottom with a score of 30.3. The study emphasizes that comprehensive safety for LGBTQ+ couples involves more than just legal marriage rights; it encompasses social acceptance and adequate support services.