Estonia Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage

June 22, 2023

In a significant stride towards inclusivity and equality, Estonia’s parliament has passed a groundbreaking law legalizing same-sex marriage, making it the first ex-Soviet country to do so. This progressive step reflects the country’s commitment to recognizing and protecting the rights of its citizens.

Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage

Estonia’s parliament recently approved amendments to the Family Law Act, allowing two adults to marry “regardless of their gender.” This milestone paves the way for same-sex couples to enjoy the same legal recognition and benefits as opposite-sex couples in terms of marriage. The amended act is scheduled to go into effect on January 1, 2024, marking an important date for the LGBTQ+ community in Estonia.

Expanding Adoption Rights

Alongside the legalization of same-sex marriage, the amendments to the Family Law Act also grant same-sex couples the right to adopt children. Previously, only married couples were eligible for adoption, but now single gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals can also petition to adopt a child in Estonia. This change in adoption policies ensures that same-sex couples have equal opportunities to build families and provide loving homes for children in need.

Shifting Public Opinion

The recognition and acceptance of same-sex partnerships in Estonia have evolved over time. Since the legal recognition of same-sex relationships in 2016 through the Registered Partnership Act, public opinion has undergone a notable transformation. According to a recent survey conducted by the Estonian Human Rights Centre, 53% of Estonians believe that same-sex partners should have the right to marry each other. This marks a significant shift from 2012 when 60% of respondents opposed marriage equality, highlighting a growing acceptance and understanding of diverse relationships within Estonian society.

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