Same-Sex Partnership Legislation in Hong Kong: Government Must Show Progress
What was the landmark ruling regarding same-sex couples in Hong Kong?
- Government has one year left to establish an alternative legal framework for same-sex partnerships
- Currently, same-sex couples in Hong Kong lack numerous rights enjoyed by heterosexual couples
What does Amnesty International urge the government to do?
Amnesty International calls upon the government to update the public on their plans to recognize same-sex partnerships following a milestone court ruling.
- Authorities have one year to comply with the court’s decision
- Equality is currently denied to same-sex couples on a daily basis
What are some examples of the rights denied to individuals in same-sex relationships?
- Jointly adopting children
- Accessing assisted reproductive technologies
- Inheriting partner’s estate without a will
- Applying for public housing as an “ordinary family”
- Enjoying benefits of filing income taxes jointly
Amnesty International emphasizes the need for a transparent update on the progress of the legal framework for same-sex partnerships in Hong Kong.
What has been the background of the fight for same-sex recognition in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong’s Court of Final Appeal set a two-year timeline for the government to provide an alternative framework for same-sex partnerships following a campaign by LGBTI activist Jimmy Sham.
Although progress has been made in limited areas, discrimination against LGBTI individuals remains a concern.
In conclusion, Amnesty International advocates for the recognition of families of choice and opposes discrimination in civil marriage laws based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Source: www.amnesty.org