'The lesbian and gay movement is perhaps the most successful of modern social movements. This powerful and insightful book throws unprecedented light on the different historical contexts in which national movements have developed and confronted or collaborated with the state. Its richness and diversity reflects the richness and diversity of what is now a global movement. This is an essential read.' Jeffrey Weeks, London South Bank University, UK 'The real contribution here is the impressive array of settings that are given informed analysis. Especially valuable are overviews provided of countries in Latin America, Asia, and other regions where the relationship between activists and state authorities has been in such dramatic flux. Readers committed to serious comparative understanding of sexual diversity politics will find this volume immensely useful.' David Rayside, University of Toronto, Canada and author of Queer Inclusions, Continental Divisions: Public Recognition of Sexual Diversity in Canada and the United States. 'A significant contribution to the field of sexuality and politics, this impressive collection offers thoughtful consideration of the dynamic and fluid relationship between the lesbian and gay social movement and institutions of the state - well timed as the treatment of lesbian and gay citizens takes root as a key issue on national and global political agendas.' Angela R. Wilson, University of Manchester, UK