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Despite the Chinese government’s tight control over LGBTQ+ representation and activism, a new study suggests that public opinion may be far more progressive than current policies reflect.
A survey conducted by the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law reveals that more than half (53%) of respondents in mainland China believe that LGBTQ people should be accepted by society. The findings challenge the assumption that Chinese citizens broadly support the government’s restrictive stance on LGBTQ+ rights.
Support for equality extended across multiple areas. About 62% agreed—and 34% somewhat agreed—that LGBTQ individuals should be treated fairly in the workplace. In education, 68% agreed and 30% somewhat agreed that queer students should be protected from bullying and violence in schools.
“Over the past decade, China has experienced government restrictions on LGBTQ rights and advocacy. But little is known about the general Chinese public’s view of LGBTQ people and issues,” explained lead author Ilan Meyer, Distinguished Senior Scholar of Public Policy at the Williams Institute. “This study shows evidence of high approval of LGBTQ rights and protections among an influential segment of the Chinese population, which may impact attitudes towards LGBTQ people overall.”
Familiarity played a major role in acceptance. The study found that 70% of the respondents personally knew at least one LGBTQ person, while 47% knew two or more. Those who knew someone LGBTQ, were younger, female, or had higher education levels were more likely to express favorable views.
When it came to family rights, 52% agreed that same-sex couples should be able to marry, and 48% believed gay couples could be capable parents. Nearly half (46%) said they would personally attend a same-sex wedding. An additional 37% somewhat agreed with these views.
The survey also explored social attitudes. About 46% said they wouldn’t mind having an LGBTQ neighbor, with another 39% somewhat agreeing. Only 6% said they would mind. Meanwhile, 45% said they were comfortable being exposed to LGBTQ content in the media.
Fifty percent agreed that companies should promote LGBTQ acceptance, aligning with traditional Chinese values of justice and equality.
The findings highlight a disconnect between public opinion and current Chinese laws. While homosexuality was decriminalized in 1997, same-sex marriage remains illegal. Same-sex couples cannot adopt children and have limited legal recognition under the “guardianship appointment” system, introduced in 2017. Trans citizens must meet strict requirements to change their legal gender, including gender reassignment surgery and a diagnosis of gender dysphoria.
Further, in June 2025, at least 30 people were arrested for writing LGBTQ+ erotica, underscoring the ongoing state repression of queer expression and content, PinkNews reports.
Still, the survey suggests that many Chinese citizens may be quietly supportive of LGBTQ rights, even if state policy has yet to catch up.
As the Williams Institute study concludes, shifting public opinion—especially among educated and younger demographics—could one day drive broader social and legal change. For more information, read here and here.
Since China has a billion+ population, I would ask from where did this sample of the Chinese public come from? How large was this sample? What were the societal level? What was the economic level? what were the ages of those who participated? What area of mainland China did these respondents live? Over what period of time did this survey extend? A rather, self-serving bit of propaganda conducted by, of course, California! Take this survey’s results with a grain of salt since it is obvious self-serving
Yes, Scratch, what’s the demographics of “Chinese citizens”? Were they within the country? Were they those that are in other countries for studies or on business? How do those who have never left the country feel? The study makes a claim, but it is dubious at best to claim that “Chinese citizens support” (inferring that ALL do when it’s really SOME do) the topic. We should always “question the source” and “question the intent” of claims. Any media publishing. Any poll.