Poster demanding same-sex union recognition in Venezuela. The universal age of consent is equal at 16. This law was declared unconstitutional by the former Supreme Court of Justice in 1997. People submitted to this law by 'administrative measures' could be placed under 're-educational programs' in special 'confinement places' without trial, as has also happened in many other countries, including Spain. However, it was occasionally applied to homosexuals and transgender individuals engaged in prostitution, as well as sex workers in general as reported by Amnesty International. In Venezuela, contrary to Spain, this law did not refer expressly to homosexuals. Homosexuality has never been punishable since Venezuelan independence, except under the 'Vagrants and Thugs' law' ( Ley de vagos y maleantes) (pre-criminal behavior laws as in place in Europe and Latin America during the 20th century). 2 Recognition of same-sex relationships.
