Abstract: This study examines the relationship between public opinion and the legal status of homosexuality in states around the globe. An index based on existing data was developed to measure the status of gay rights. A regression analysis shows a positive effect of public opinion on legal status, moderated by the degree of democracy. The predictive effect of public opinion on legislation in full democracies can be up to three times as strong compared to hybrid regimes.
Keywords: homosexuality, public opinion, legal status, democracy Citeren: Slingerland J. van, Karl, A.L. & Klaster. F. (2017) Coming out for gay rights. Does public opinion matter more in democracies? Public Note, 2(1), 33-40.
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Jasmijn van Slingerland
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