Taiwan Rules In Favor Of Same-Sex Unions In Landmark Decision! So What Does This Mean?
Taiwan Rules In Favor Of Same-Sex Unions In Landmark Decision! So What Does This Mean?
Taiwan's top judges vote in favor of same-sex marriage in an historic, groundbreaking development--one that could make Taiwan the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage.
Taiwan's top judges vote in favor of same-sex marriage in an historic, groundbreaking development--one that could make Taiwan the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage.
A Groundbreaking Decision for the LGBT Community
On Wednesday, a Taipei court ruled in favor of allowing same-sex marriage, a landmark decision that could allow Taiwan to become the first Asian country that recognizes same-sex unions.
The decision arrived after Taiwan's top judges ruled that the country's Civil Code (which states that only a man and a woman can marry) was in violation of constitutional rights.
"Without a doubt, Taiwan is walking in front of other Asian countries on this. This is significant for all of Asia."
Ying Xin
Executive Director of the Beijing LGBT Center
What Does the Ruling Mean?
In light of the ruling, Taiwan parliament will have to either make changes to existing laws or propose new legislation.
Uncertainty around Parliament's decision--to amend old laws or create new ones--have created fears in the LGBT community.
The community hopes Parliament will choose to amend old marriage laws to include LGBT people.
If new legislation is proposed, the LGBT community fears that Parliament will recognize same-sex unions without affording them all of the privileges enjoyed by heterosexual married couples.
Supporters and Members of LGBT Community Celebrate
Photo Credit: REUTERS
Increased Persecution
Taiwanese organizations against same-sex marriage say they will ask Parliament to refrain from passing any legislation on the matter, hoping for a referendum.
The LGBT community has experienced increasing persecution in recent months, as conservatives opposed to same-sex marriage have staged mass protests.
Taiwanese courts set a two-year deadline on reaching a decision on legislation surrounding the decision. If they fail to do so, same-sex couples will be able to marry based on the court's original ruling.
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Are you in support of Taiwan's landmark decision?
Are you in support of Taiwan's landmark decision?