Countries Where Porn Is Illegal

The debate over pornography is a tale as old as time - and still very relevant today. Is it a form of free speech protected by rights of expression? Is it a public health concern contributing to moral decay? The answer largely depends on whom you ask and in what country those individuals reside. This article seeks to highlight the global trends in pornography legality, showing where it is strictly forbidden and the rationale behind such prohibitions.

• Pornography is banned in a total of 34 countries, as per our data, with countries spread across different continents, indicating this is a global issue spanning various cultures and societies.
• The majority of these countries enforcing a ban on pornography are predominantly Islamic, such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Afghanistan, highlighting how cultural and religious beliefs can influence a country's stance on adult content.
• Certain countries with strict policies might surprise global observers. For example, South Korea and China - technologically advanced nations known for their digital freedoms - are featured on this list. This indicates a country's level of technology or internet penetration does not necessarily spell leniency towards adult content.
• Nations like Vietnam, Belarus, and North Korea, known for their stringent governance models and limited freedom of expression, also enforce a ban on pornography.
• Countries in Africa, such as Uganda, Tanzania, Botswana, and Equatorial Guinea, also feature prominently on this list, showcasing regional differences in interpreting and enforcing bans on adult content.