Marriage rights for all

Farida Iqbal

Debates about same-sex marriage are intensifying internationally. On December 1, the Constitutional Court of South Africa ruled that it is unconstitutional to prevent same-sex marriages. The government has confirmed that it will respect the judgment and that same-sex marriage legislation will be introduced within a year.

The Nigerian parliament has taken a step in the opposite direction, condemning same-sex marriage as "un-African". Minister for information Frank Nweke explained to the BBC that Nigeria took the "pre-emptive step" in January of banning same-sex marriage in response to developments in other countries. Under the new legislation, people who attempt or assist same-sex marriage may face five years' imprisonment. The legislation also bans pro-gay protest rallies.

The Czech Republic is likely to enact civil unions. A bill was passed by the Czech parliament on January 26 expanding health and inheritance rights for same-sex couples. Yet this does not provide access to marriage or adoption. President Vaklav Klaus has vetoed the bill, despite a recent poll by the Public Opinion Research Centre indicating that 62% of the population support same-sex relationship recognition. The presidential veto may be bypassed by a majority vote for the bill in parliament.

Canada's recently elected Conservative Party has indicated that it will attempt to repeal same-sex marriage legislation. Such a move is not likely to be supported by a majority of Canadians.

Legislation for same-sex civil unions was passed in Britain in late 2004 and enacted in December 2005. Australian same-sex couples who are also British citizens are taking advantage of the new Civil Partnership Act. Their relationships are recognised in Britain, but the Howard government's ban on same-sex marriages ensures that their civil unions cannot be recognised in Australia.

From Green Left Weekly, March 1, 2006.

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From GLW issue 658