Question: “I was just wondering where Buddhist stand on issues like abortion and gay marriage. As well as sex before marriage etc.”
Abortion is considered breaking the first Precept, no killing. So obviously that’s a no-no. Even in extreme situations such as rape, as horrible as that is, aborting the child will guarantee you an unfortunate rebirth (to hell according to some scriptures regarding taking life). In this case, the best option is to have the baby and give it up for adoption.
Buddhism does not discriminate against gender, religion, race, social class, caste, etc. So it does not discriminate against the rights of gays and gay marriage. Only in Tibetan Buddhism where homosexuality is forbidden WITHIN Buddhism (as a monastic), but OKAY with it for lay people. Otherwise, the Buddha never once mentioned homosexuality, so almost all Buddhist schools agree that it is neither right nor wrong. Because Buddhist regard everyone as equal, as our mothers, brothers, wives, sisters, fathers – why should be discriminate or hate anyone?
Sexual misconduct, one of the five precepts, is often the most confusing for people, because it gives off a portrayal as no sex at all or something dramatic. What sexual misconduct actually is, is to be faithful. If you are in a relationship, you stay faithful to that person; having sex with only that person. Or having sex with only one person and not having several sexual partners. Same regard goes for sex before marriage.
Smile and be well!