A new national study finds that while legal equality for LGBTI people has advanced in South Africa over two decades, social acceptance remains uneven.
The Admission Reserved report, released on 26 June by The Other Foundation and the Human Sciences Research Council, draws on a survey of 3,285 respondents conducted from November 2025 to February 2026. It estimates that 5.3 percent of South Africans aged 16 and older, or 2.39 million people, identify as LGBTI. The study notes a decline in moral opposition to same-sex relations from 62 percent in 2015 to 52 percent in 2025.
Support for marriage equality rose from 37 percent to 45 percent over the decade. Family acceptance stands at around 50 percent for gay, lesbian and transgender individuals. Public displays of affection by same-sex couples are viewed as acceptable by only 28 percent of respondents.
Constitutional Court Justice Jody Kollapen said at the launch that legislation alone cannot ensure inclusion. Neville Gabriel, CEO of The Other Foundation, warned that rights gains require ongoing defence amid global backlash.
