Tinder is launching new features to support LGBTQ+ users who travel to countries with laws that outlaw or essentially criminalize LGBTQ status. According to USA Today, the new “Traveler Alert” will be implemented on iOS and Android in approximately 70 countries around the world.
With the new feature, users who identify as LGBTQ+ won’t automatically appear on Tinder when they open the app in a country with discriminatory LGBTQ+ laws. Users who live in such countries will see the same alert when they first open the app.
Tinder partnered with the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) to determine which countries would be included in the alert. Some of the countries include South Sudan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Nigeria. A complete map can be viewed here.
After receiving the alert, users will have the option of remaining hidden in that location or choosing to make their profile public. If they opt to continue swiping, their sexual orientation and gender identity won’t be shown on their profile until they’ve left that location. This also means that people who live in those countries will not have the option of sharing their gender identity or sexual orientation on their profiles. The safety alerts will be updated in accordance with local laws.
In a statement, Tinder CEO Elie Seidman said, “We fundamentally believe that everyone should be able to love who they want to love – and we strive to reflect this in everything we do at Tinder. It is unthinkable that, in 2019, there are still countries with legislation in place that deprives people of this basic right. We serve all communities – no matter their gender identity or sexual orientation – and we are proud to offer features that help keep them safe. This alert is an example of the many steps that we are taking to protect our users around the world.”
Tinder launched a new sexual orientations feature as part of a partnership with GLAAD earlier this summer. The dating app also encouraged its users to contact senators the Equality Act (an anti-LGBTQ discrimination bill) to the Senate floor.to bring