In a first, lawmakers in South Korea announced, on Wednesday (May 31), that they have proposed the country’s first same-sex marriage bill, reported The Guardian. The bill comes months after a South Korean court delivered a landmark ruling which recognised the rights of same-sex couples in the country.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the proposed marriage equality bill?</h2>

The marriage equality bill has been proposed by a lawmaker from the minor opposition Justice party’s Jang Hye-yeong and co-sponsored by 12 lawmakers across all the main parties. “Family is the most basic unit that forms a larger community called society,” said Jang, at the National Assembly on Wednesday, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

Notably, South Korea does not recognise same-sex civil partnerships, but their constitution stipulates that marriage and family shall be established “on the basis of individual dignity and equality of the sexes”. Furthermore, same-sex relations are not criminalised in South Korea but reports suggest that LGBTQ people tend to live under the radar.&nbsp;

Therefore, rights activists in the country have long called for legislation against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, but the anti-discrimination law has not been passed due to a lack of consensus among lawmakers.&nbsp;

A lawyer at the Marriage Equality Korea civic group, told the Guardian, “It’s a historic moment, but this is just the start,” and called for the bills to be discussed in the assembly “ immediately.” However, the efforts to pass such legislation including the anti-discrimination law have reportedly been opposed by religious groups that claim such moves would “legalise homosexuality”.&nbsp;

According to a Hankook Research survey, 52 per cent of respondents were against the legalisation of same-sex marriage in South Korea. However, Jang told the United Kingdom-based newspaper, that enacting such laws is a part of the process of achieving social consensus in a democratic society.&nbsp;

<h2>South Korea’s landmark ruling in February</h2>

Earlier this year, the High Court in South Korea ruled in favour of a gay couple, So Seong-wook and Kim Yong-min, when they sued South Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) in 2021.&nbsp; 
 
This came after the insurance service terminated benefits for his partner, Kim whom So had registered as a dependent, after the officials found out they were a gay couple. So and Kim couple had been living together and got married in 2019, but it held no legal validity since the country does not recognise same-sex marriage.&nbsp;

At the time, the high court had acknowledged that it is difficult to recognise same-sex marriage under the country’s current common law. However, “those in same-sex marriage are fundamentally identical to those in a common-law marriage, except that they are homosexual,” said the court, as per the Yonhap News Agency.&nbsp;

It added that considering they form “the highly identical union” the withdrawal of the insurance coverage “constitutes discrimination based on sexual orientation” which is also against the state health insurance benefits.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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In a first, lawmakers in South Korea announced, on Wednesday (May 31), that they have proposed the country’s first same-sex marriage bill, reported The Guardian.

In a first, lawmakers in South Korea announced, on Wednesday (May 31), that they have proposed the country’s first same-sex marriage bill, reported The Guardian. The bill comes months after a South Korean court delivered a landmark ruling which recognised the rights of same-sex couples in the country. What is the proposed marriage equality bill? The marriage equality bill has been proposed by a lawmaker from the minor opposition Justice party’s Jang Hye-yeong and co-sponsored by 12 lawmakers across all the main parties. “Family is the most basic unit that forms a larger community called society,” said Jang, at the National Assembly on Wednesday, as quoted by The Guardian. Notably, South Korea does not recognise same-sex civil partnerships, but their constitution stipulates that marriage and family shall be established “on the basis of individual dignity and equality of the sexes”. Furthermore, same-sex relations are not criminalised in South Korea but reports suggest that LGBTQ people tend to live under the radar. Therefore, rights activists in the country have long called for legislation against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, but the anti-discrimination law has not been passed due to a lack of consensus among lawmakers. A lawyer at the Marriage Equality Korea civic group, told the Guardian, “It’s a historic moment, but this is just the start,” and called for the bills to be discussed in the assembly “ immediately.” However, the efforts to pass such legislation including the anti-discrimination law have reportedly been opposed by religious groups that claim such moves would “legalise homosexuality”. According to a Hankook Research survey, 52 per cent of respondents were against the legalisation of same-sex marriage in South Korea. However, Jang told the United Kingdom-based newspaper, that enacting such laws is a part of the process of achieving social consensus in a democratic society. South Korea’s landmark ruling in February Earlier this year, the High Court in South Korea ruled in favour of a gay couple, So Seong-wook and Kim Yong-min, when they sued South Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) in 2021. This came after the insurance service terminated benefits for his partner, Kim whom So had registered as a dependent, after the officials found out they were a gay couple. So and Kim couple had been living together and got married in 2019, but it held no legal validity since the country does not recognise same-sex marriage. At the time, the high court had acknowledged that it is difficult to recognise same-sex marriage under the country’s current common law. However, “those in same-sex marriage are fundamentally identical to those in a common-law marriage, except that they are homosexual,” said the court, as per the Yonhap News Agency. It added that considering they form “the highly identical union” the withdrawal of the insurance coverage “constitutes discrimination based on sexual orientation” which is also against the state health insurance benefits. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Historic’: South Korea’s same-sex marriage bill goes to parliament

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has signed one of the world's toughest anti-LGBTQ laws that includes the death penalty for aggravated homosexuality. The move has drawn Western condemnation and risks sanctions from eight donors.

West questions aid to Uganda after passing World's strictest anti-LGBTQ law

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni signed what might arguably be one of the world’s toughest anti-LGBTQ bills into law on Monday (May 29). The move also comes amid Western condemnation, international criticism, and potential sanctions against the country by aid donors. While same-sex relations were already illegal in the African nation, the law takes it one step further by including the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality”.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the new law about?</h2>

The bill, Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, which was recently signed into law, was introduced in Uganda’s parliament&nbsp;earlier this year. The death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality” includes sex with a minor, people who are HIV positive, and incest.&nbsp;

Additionally, anyone engaging in gay sex, if convicted, could face life imprisonment and a person caught trying to commit same-sex acts could face up to 10 years in prison. The law also stipulates a 20-year sentence for anyone “promoting” homosexuality.&nbsp;

It also calls for what it terms “rehabilitation” for gay offenders which could hint at the widely discredited conversion therapy. Meanwhile, a minor convicted of an offence involving same-sex relations can be imprisoned for not more than three years.&nbsp;

If legal entities, such as media and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), are found “knowingly” promoting homosexuality, they will be fined and also face potential suspension.&nbsp;

<h2>Museveni has ‘answered the cries of our people’</h2>

The announcement of the signing of the bill was made by Ugandan Parliament Speaker Anita Annet Among who said Museveni has “answered the cries of our people.” She also took to Twitter and wrote, “I thank His Excellency, the president, for his steadfast action in the interest of Uganda.”

She added, “With a lot of humility, I thank my colleagues the Members of Parliament for withstanding all the pressure from bullies and doomsday conspiracy theorists in the interest of the country.”&nbsp;

A report by the Associated Press has also attributed the rise in anti-gay sentiment in Uganda to news coverage of alleged sodomy cases&nbsp;in boarding schools.&nbsp;One of the cases includes a parent accusing a teacher of abusing her son who is in a prestigious school for boys.&nbsp;

LGBTQ rights activists have called the bill unnecessary considering homosexuality in Uganda has long been illegal in line with a colonial-era law which criminalises sexual activity “against the order of nature.” The violation of this&nbsp;law&nbsp;carries a punishment of life imprisonment.

<h2>International criticism and condemnation&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, the bill’s sponsor Asuman Basalirwa told reporters that the Ugandan Parliament speaker’s visa to the United States was cancelled after the law was signed. This comes after the White House condemned the bill after it was first passed back in March. Amnesty International has described the legislation as “draconian and overly broad.”

On Monday, the United Nations Human Rights Office said it was “appalled that the draconian and discriminatory anti-gay bill is now law,” and called the legislation “a recipe for systematic violations of the rights” of LGBTQ people and others. The European Parliament has also condemned the law with MEPs describing it as “horrific”.&nbsp;

In a joint statement, on Monday, PEPFAR, the US flagship HIV/AIDS programme and leaders of the UNAIDS programme, said that the law will put Uganda’s anti-HIV fight “in grave jeopardy,” and that they were “deeply concerned about the harmful impact” of the legislation on public health.&nbsp;

The statement also noted that the "stigma and discrimination associated with the passage of the Act have already led to reduced access to prevention as well as treatment services"&nbsp;for LGBTQ people, and it will “obstruct health education and the outreach that can help end AIDS as a public health threat.”

“Our data shows that this law runs counter to the interests of economic progress and prosperity of all people in Uganda,” said Dominic Arnall, chief executive for Open For Business, a coalition of companies which includes tech giants like Google and Microsoft. He also said that the group was deeply disappointed by the signing of the bill.&nbsp; 
 
US President Joe Biden 
 
After the bill was signed said that the&nbsp;enactment of the anti-LGBTQ law is a "tragic violation of universal human rights". He added, "I join with people around the world - including many in Uganda - in calling for its immediate repeal." Biden&nbsp;also said that they are considering steps like additional sanctions&nbsp;and restriction of entry into the US "against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption".&nbsp;

United Kingdom government&nbsp;'appalled'

The&nbsp;British government said that they were "appalled" at the Ugandan government's new law. Andrew Mitchell, a minister in the foreign office department&nbsp;said it "undermines the protections and freedoms of all Ugandans enshrined in the Ugandan Constitution".&nbsp; 
 
He also went on to describe the law "deeply discriminatory" and said it would "increase the risk of violence, discrimination and persecution, will set back the fight against HIV/AIDs, and will damage Uganda’s international reputation".&nbsp;

<h2>‘A dark day’ for LGBTQ community in Uganda</h2>

According to media reports, there is fear among Uganda’s LGBTQ community as many have closed down social media accounts and fled homes, while some are even planning to move abroad. Henry Mukiibi, an activist who assists LGBTQ Ugandans, told CNN that he is afraid of people taking the law into their own hands.&nbsp;

“I think this is so so horrible. We didn’t expect this – we thought he would be advised against it. We are going to be tortured. I am just scared now about what is next,” Mukiibi told CNN. He added, “People have been waiting for the bill to be signed and then they will work on us. We are going to die.”&nbsp;

“It’s a very dark and sad day for the LGBTIQ community, our allies and all of Uganda,” said Clare Byarugaba, a Ugandan rights activist, as per Reuters, after the bill was signed.&nbsp;

Africa's deputy director for Human Rights Watch,&nbsp;Ashwanee Budoo-Scholtz,&nbsp;told AFP that the legislation&nbsp;was “discriminatory and is a step in the wrong direction for the protection of human rights for all people in Uganda”.&nbsp;

Homosexuality is criminalised in more than 30 of Africa’s 54 countries as some people supposedly view it as a behaviour imported from abroad. There are also fears that this legislation could encourage lawmakers in neighbouring Kenya and Tanzania to take similar steps.&nbsp; 
 
After the law was signed, a Kenyan Member of&nbsp;Parliament, George Kaluma,&nbsp;said, "Wow! What a leader we've in Africa! Congratulations Uganda! Kenya is following you in this endeavour to save humanity ... Perversion is treated, not normalized!"&nbsp;

The 78-year-old leader was seen signing the bill at his desk with a golden pen and has previously called homosexuality a “deviation from normal”. He also urged lawmakers to resist “imperialist” pressure amid international condemnation of the bill. Notably, a similar less restrictive anti-LGBTQ law was struck down by a court on procedural grounds.&nbsp;

Rights activists have the option of appealing the legislation before the constitutional court. The 2014 anti-LGBTQ law was also struck down by a domestic court&nbsp;after some countries in the West had taken measures including suspension of aid, imposed visa restrictions and curtailed security cooperation.

The civil society in Uganda, with the LGBTQ community, is ready to take this to the courts and challenge the law, Nicholas Opiyo, a prominent human rights lawyer told CNN. “Because this law is a deeply discriminatory and repressive law that doesn’t meet any international human rights and local standards.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni signed what might arguably be one of the world’s toughest anti-LGBTQ bills into law on Monday (May 29). The move also comes amid Western condemnation, international criticism, and potential sanctions against the country by aid donors.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni signed what might arguably be one of the world’s toughest anti-LGBTQ bills into law on Monday (May 29). The move also comes amid Western condemnation, international criticism, and potential sanctions against the country by aid donors. While same-sex relations were already illegal in the African nation, the law takes it one step further by including the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality”. What is the new law about? The bill, Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, which was recently signed into law, was introduced in Uganda’s parliament earlier this year. The death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality” includes sex with a minor, people who are HIV positive, and incest. Additionally, anyone engaging in gay sex, if convicted, could face life imprisonment and a person caught trying to commit same-sex acts could face up to 10 years in prison. The law also stipulates a 20-year sentence for anyone “promoting” homosexuality. It also calls for what it terms “rehabilitation” for gay offenders which could hint at the widely discredited conversion therapy. Meanwhile, a minor convicted of an offence involving same-sex relations can be imprisoned for not more than three years. If legal entities, such as media and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), are found “knowingly” promoting homosexuality, they will be fined and also face potential suspension. Museveni has ‘answered the cries of our people’ The announcement of the signing of the bill was made by Ugandan Parliament Speaker Anita Annet Among who said Museveni has “answered the cries of our people.” She also took to Twitter and wrote, “I thank His Excellency, the president, for his steadfast action in the interest of Uganda.” She added, “With a lot of humility, I thank my colleagues the Members of Parliament for withstanding all the pressure from bullies and doomsday conspiracy theorists in the interest of the country.” A report by the Associated Press has also attributed the rise in anti-gay sentiment in Uganda to news coverage of alleged sodomy cases in boarding schools. One of the cases includes a parent accusing a teacher of abusing her son who is in a prestigious school for boys. LGBTQ rights activists have called the bill unnecessary considering homosexuality in Uganda has long been illegal in line with a colonial-era law which criminalises sexual activity “against the order of nature.” The violation of this law carries a punishment of life imprisonment. International criticism and condemnation Notably, the bill’s sponsor Asuman Basalirwa told reporters that the Ugandan Parliament speaker’s visa to the United States was cancelled after the law was signed. This comes after the White House condemned the bill after it was first passed back in March. Amnesty International has described the legislation as “draconian and overly broad.” On Monday, the United Nations Human Rights Office said it was “appalled that the draconian and discriminatory anti-gay bill is now law,” and called the legislation “a recipe for systematic violations of the rights” of LGBTQ people and others. The European Parliament has also condemned the law with MEPs describing it as “horrific”. In a joint statement, on Monday, PEPFAR, the US flagship HIV/AIDS programme and leaders of the UNAIDS programme, said that the law will put Uganda’s anti-HIV fight “in grave jeopardy,” and that they were “deeply concerned about the harmful impact” of the legislation on public health. The statement also noted that the "stigma and discrimination associated with the passage of the Act have already led to reduced access to prevention as well as treatment services" for LGBTQ people, and it will “obstruct health education and the outreach that can help end AIDS as a public health threat.” “Our data shows that this law runs counter to the interests of economic progress and prosperity of all people in Uganda,” said Dominic Arnall, chief executive for Open For Business, a coalition of companies which includes tech giants like Google and Microsoft. He also said that the group was deeply disappointed by the signing of the bill. US President Joe Biden After the bill was signed said that the enactment of the anti-LGBTQ law is a "tragic violation of universal human rights". He added, "I join with people around the world - including many in Uganda - in calling for its immediate repeal." Biden also said that they are considering steps like additional sanctions and restriction of entry into the US "against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption". United Kingdom government 'appalled' The British government said that they were "appalled" at the Ugandan government's new law. Andrew Mitchell, a minister in the foreign office department said it "undermines the protections and freedoms of all Ugandans enshrined in the Ugandan Constitution". He also went on to describe the law "deeply discriminatory" and said it would "increase the risk of violence, discrimination and persecution, will set back the fight against HIV/AIDs, and will damage Uganda’s international reputation". ‘A dark day’ for LGBTQ community in Uganda According to media reports, there is fear among Uganda’s LGBTQ community as many have closed down social media accounts and fled homes, while some are even planning to move abroad. Henry Mukiibi, an activist who assists LGBTQ Ugandans, told CNN that he is afraid of people taking the law into their own hands. “I think this is so so horrible. We didn’t expect this – we thought he would be advised against it. We are going to be tortured. I am just scared now about what is next,” Mukiibi told CNN. He added, “People have been waiting for the bill to be signed and then they will work on us. We are going to die.” “It’s a very dark and sad day for the LGBTIQ community, our allies and all of Uganda,” said Clare Byarugaba, a Ugandan rights activist, as per Reuters, after the bill was signed. Africa's deputy director for Human Rights Watch, Ashwanee Budoo-Scholtz, told AFP that the legislation was “discriminatory and is a step in the wrong direction for the protection of human rights for all people in Uganda”. Homosexuality is criminalised in more than 30 of Africa’s 54 countries as some people supposedly view it as a behaviour imported from abroad. There are also fears that this legislation could encourage lawmakers in neighbouring Kenya and Tanzania to take similar steps. After the law was signed, a Kenyan Member of Parliament, George Kaluma, said, "Wow! What a leader we've in Africa! Congratulations Uganda! Kenya is following you in this endeavour to save humanity ... Perversion is treated, not normalized!" The 78-year-old leader was seen signing the bill at his desk with a golden pen and has previously called homosexuality a “deviation from normal”. He also urged lawmakers to resist “imperialist” pressure amid international condemnation of the bill. Notably, a similar less restrictive anti-LGBTQ law was struck down by a court on procedural grounds. Rights activists have the option of appealing the legislation before the constitutional court. The 2014 anti-LGBTQ law was also struck down by a domestic court after some countries in the West had taken measures including suspension of aid, imposed visa restrictions and curtailed security cooperation. The civil society in Uganda, with the LGBTQ community, is ready to take this to the courts and challenge the law, Nicholas Opiyo, a prominent human rights lawyer told CNN. “Because this law is a deeply discriminatory and repressive law that doesn’t meet any international human rights and local standards.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Uganda enacts harsh anti-LGBTQ law, includes death penalty for ‘aggravated homosexuality’

In an unusual display of open disagreement, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on Friday took public potshots at each other. The spat happened as the two world leaders were attending the Group of Seven (G7) leader summit in Japan's Hiroshima. The topic of this spat, as per reports, was LGBTQ rights.

The disagreement, as per Bloomberg, started when just ahead of closed-door talks, Trudeau criticised Meloni and Italy on camera.

"Canada is concerned about some of the positioning that Italy is taking in terms of LGBT rights, but I look forward to talking with you," said Trudeau.

Aslo read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-to-criminalise-identification-as-lgbtq-introduces-strict-punishments-for-violations-574498">Identifying as LGBTQ in Uganda can lead to life in jail and even death sentence</a>

Trudeau's comment left Meloni visibly bristling and annoyed. Later, after the closed-door meeting, while talking to reporters, she accused the Canadian prime minister of being a "victim of fake news" and even said he was a "bit rash" in his comments.&nbsp;

Speaking in Italian, Meloni also said that after their talks he now probably understood that what gets written about her doesn't correspond to her reality.&nbsp;

As per a statement released by Justin Trudeau's office, the Canadian prime minister&nbsp;also raised his concerns about LGBTQ rights in Italy during the meeting. The statement added that the Italian prime minister had defended her government's position and stated that they were following court rulings related to LGBTQ matters.

While speaking to the press, Meloni pointed out that she hasn't changed any existing legislation on LGBTQ issues in Italy.

In March, Meloni's far-right-led government ordered city councils to stop the official recording of both parents in same-sex couples. Instead, they were instructed to only acknowledge the biological parent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/urban-elite-concept-indian-govt-opposes-same-sex-marriage-as-sc-to-begin-hearing-583259">‘Urban elite concept’: Indian govt opposes same-sex marriage as SC to begin hearing</a>

The move was denounced by gay rights activists as "homophobic". Speaking at the time, Alessia Crocini, the president of Rainbow Families, a non-profit organisation "supporting LGBTQ+ parents and their children",&nbsp;said the move exposed the Meloni government's homophobia.

"This government is the maximum expression of homophobia."

"Meloni says that for a child to grow up well, they need a mother and father, even if decades of research say otherwise. It is insulting to hundreds of thousands of families with two same-sex parents," she said.

Italy's law doesn't recognise same-sex parents and Meloni has previously stated that every child is entitled to a mother and a father.

She also remarked that people identifying with a gender other than what was assigned to them at birth are victims of ideology. In a magazine interview in March, the Italian prime minister said "Being a man or a woman is rooted in who we are, and can’t be changed."

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an unusual display of open disagreement, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on Friday took public potshots at each other.

In an unusual display of open disagreement, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on Friday took public potshots at each other. The spat happened as the two world leaders were attending the Group of Seven (G7) leader summit in Japan's Hiroshima. The topic of this spat, as per reports, was LGBTQ rights. The disagreement, as per Bloomberg, started when just ahead of closed-door talks, Trudeau criticised Meloni and Italy on camera. "Canada is concerned about some of the positioning that Italy is taking in terms of LGBT rights, but I look forward to talking with you," said Trudeau. Aslo read | Identifying as LGBTQ in Uganda can lead to life in jail and even death sentence Trudeau's comment left Meloni visibly bristling and annoyed. Later, after the closed-door meeting, while talking to reporters, she accused the Canadian prime minister of being a "victim of fake news" and even said he was a "bit rash" in his comments. Speaking in Italian, Meloni also said that after their talks he now probably understood that what gets written about her doesn't correspond to her reality. As per a statement released by Justin Trudeau's office, the Canadian prime minister also raised his concerns about LGBTQ rights in Italy during the meeting. The statement added that the Italian prime minister had defended her government's position and stated that they were following court rulings related to LGBTQ matters. While speaking to the press, Meloni pointed out that she hasn't changed any existing legislation on LGBTQ issues in Italy. In March, Meloni's far-right-led government ordered city councils to stop the official recording of both parents in same-sex couples. Instead, they were instructed to only acknowledge the biological parent. Also read | ‘Urban elite concept’: Indian govt opposes same-sex marriage as SC to begin hearing The move was denounced by gay rights activists as "homophobic". Speaking at the time, Alessia Crocini, the president of Rainbow Families, a non-profit organisation "supporting LGBTQ+ parents and their children", said the move exposed the Meloni government's homophobia. "This government is the maximum expression of homophobia." "Meloni says that for a child to grow up well, they need a mother and father, even if decades of research say otherwise. It is insulting to hundreds of thousands of families with two same-sex parents," she said. Italy's law doesn't recognise same-sex parents and Meloni has previously stated that every child is entitled to a mother and a father. She also remarked that people identifying with a gender other than what was assigned to them at birth are victims of ideology. In a magazine interview in March, the Italian prime minister said "Being a man or a woman is rooted in who we are, and can’t be changed." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Justin Trudeau and Giorgia Meloni spar publicly over LGBTQ rights at G7 summit

After announcing his candidacy for the 2024 US presidential elections on Wednesday, May 17, Florida Governor Ron Desantis signed&nbsp;four bills that&nbsp;ban&nbsp;gender-affirming care for minors, restrict&nbsp;drag shows and discussion of personal pronouns in schools and force&nbsp;people to use certain bathrooms. DeSantis signed the&nbsp;bills on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia.

The debate around LGBTQ+ legislations&nbsp;has become one of the major agendas for DeSantis as he prepares for his run for the presidency.&nbsp;

<h2>The signing of the legislation</h2>

DeSantis signed the&nbsp;legislation that bans gender-affirming care for minors at the Cambridge Christian School in Tampa in front of a large crowd and promised to make Florida a “citadel of normalcy”. The crowd present welcomed the bill.

He also signed a bill extending the state’s controversial “don’t say gay” law, which will now prohibit any classroom instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity through eighth grade.

In his statement, DeSantis pointed out that “It’s kind of sad that we even have some of these discussions, Let Kids Be Kids.” He further added that “We never did this through all of human history until like, what, two weeks ago? They’re having third-graders declare pronouns? We’re not doing the pronoun Olympics in Florida.”

<h2>Democrats oppose the LGBTQ+ bill</h2>

While DeSantis claims&nbsp;that he is protecting parents’ rights, his opponents have a completely different take on the issue. Democrats believe&nbsp;DeSantis is denying the rights of parents with transgender kids.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US | Kentucky anti-LGBTQ law: Legislature passes anti-Trans law

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In a statement given to the AP, Democratic State Senator Shevrin Jones stated that “every other parent has the right to raise their child the way that they want to as long as your child is not gay, trans, bisexual. That’s freedom for some parents, but not for all parents.”

<h2>“God does not make mistakes with our children” - Republican Rep. Randy Fine</h2>

While faced with opposition from the Democratic Party, Republican Representative Randy Fine supported DeSantis’ move by saying that “God does not make mistakes with our children.”

So far, nearly three parents from Florida have asked a federal court to issue a temporary restraining order; blocking the new law’s enforcement. These families, who are represented by Southern Legal Counsel, GLBTQ Legal Advocates &amp; Defenders (GLAD), the National Center for Lesbian Rights and the Human Rights Campaign will be present in court on Friday, May 19 to argue that their children should be able to receive proper medical care while the case continues.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-set-to-extend-the-ambit-of-dont-say-gay-law-to-all-school-grades-574975">Also Read |&nbsp;Florida set to extend the ambit of 'Don't say gay' law to all school grades</a>

As reported by AP, even though transgender medical treatment for children and teenagers is available in the US and is endorsed by major medical associations, lately it has been subject to restrictions or outright bans. &nbsp;

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&nbsp;

After announcing his candidacy for the 2024 US presidential elections on Wednesday, May 17, Florida Governor Ron Desantis signed four bills that ban gender-affirming care for minors, restrict drag shows and discussion of personal pronouns in schools and force people to use certain bathrooms.

After announcing his candidacy for the 2024 US presidential elections on Wednesday, May 17, Florida Governor Ron Desantis signed four bills that ban gender-affirming care for minors, restrict drag shows and discussion of personal pronouns in schools and force people to use certain bathrooms. DeSantis signed the bills on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. The debate around LGBTQ+ legislations has become one of the major agendas for DeSantis as he prepares for his run for the presidency. The signing of the legislation DeSantis signed the legislation that bans gender-affirming care for minors at the Cambridge Christian School in Tampa in front of a large crowd and promised to make Florida a “citadel of normalcy”. The crowd present welcomed the bill. He also signed a bill extending the state’s controversial “don’t say gay” law, which will now prohibit any classroom instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity through eighth grade. In his statement, DeSantis pointed out that “It’s kind of sad that we even have some of these discussions, Let Kids Be Kids.” He further added that “We never did this through all of human history until like, what, two weeks ago? They’re having third-graders declare pronouns? We’re not doing the pronoun Olympics in Florida.” Democrats oppose the LGBTQ+ bill While DeSantis claims that he is protecting parents’ rights, his opponents have a completely different take on the issue. Democrats believe DeSantis is denying the rights of parents with transgender kids. WATCH | US | Kentucky anti-LGBTQ law: Legislature passes anti-Trans law × In a statement given to the AP, Democratic State Senator Shevrin Jones stated that “every other parent has the right to raise their child the way that they want to as long as your child is not gay, trans, bisexual. That’s freedom for some parents, but not for all parents.” “God does not make mistakes with our children” - Republican Rep. Randy Fine While faced with opposition from the Democratic Party, Republican Representative Randy Fine supported DeSantis’ move by saying that “God does not make mistakes with our children.” So far, nearly three parents from Florida have asked a federal court to issue a temporary restraining order; blocking the new law’s enforcement. These families, who are represented by Southern Legal Counsel, GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), the National Center for Lesbian Rights and the Human Rights Campaign will be present in court on Friday, May 19 to argue that their children should be able to receive proper medical care while the case continues. Also Read | Florida set to extend the ambit of 'Don't say gay' law to all school grades As reported by AP, even though transgender medical treatment for children and teenagers is available in the US and is endorsed by major medical associations, lately it has been subject to restrictions or outright bans. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Florida Governor DeSantis signs bills restricting LGBTQ+ rights ahead of 2024 presidential election campaign

Flag waving crowds gathered in Tokyo today for the first full pride parade in four years, people demanded Japan to join other advanced nations in legally recognising same-sex marriage. Ten thousand people marched in Sunday's parade in downtown Shibuya district.

Japan LGBTQ rights: 10,000 people march in Shibuya ahead of G7 summit

Uganda’s parliament passed a law that criminalises identifying as LGBTQ. More than 30 African countries, including Uganda, already ban same-sex relations. The new law appears to be the first to outlaw merely identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ), according to rights group Human Rights Watch.

Uganda outlaws identifying as LGBTQ, imposes death penalty for gay sex

For the first time, a South Korean high court has given legal recognition to same-sex couples. On Tuesday, the Seoul High Court ruled that the state's health insurer should provide spousal coverage to same-sex couples. Lawyers and advocates have hailed the ruling as the first legal recognition of same-sex unions in the country. This historic ruling overturns a decision by a lower court which had ruled that a same-sex dependent was ineligible for National Health Insurance Service benefits available to other couples. The couple behind this judgement also expressed their happiness with the ruling and said they were "delighted".

"It is not only our victory but also a victory for many same-sex couples and LGBTQ families in Korea," they said.

Watch |&nbsp;Blow to LGBTQ rights: Japan rules same-sex marriage ban constitutional

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However, the national health insurer said that it will file an appeal with the nation's Supreme Court.

The couple, So Sung-wook and Kim Yong-min had been embroiled in a legal battle with the National Health Insurance Service since 2021. They had filed a suit against the insurer after being denied spousal benefits.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/same-sex-blessings-row-anglican-leaders-rejects-archbishop-of-canterbury-justin-welby-as-leader-564282">Same-sex blessing row: In a first, a move against Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby</a>

An earlier decision by a lower court had ruled in favour of the insurer. The ruling, as per Reuters, was taken on the grounds that a same-sex union cannot be considered a common law marriage under common law. Yong-min and Sung-wook then contested this ruling.

As per their lawyer, Ryu Min-hee, the appellate court in its ruling said that the spousal coverage system under the state health insurance system isn't just for families as defined by the law.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;Blow to LGBTQ rights: Japan rules same-sex marriage ban constitutional

The court also said that denying rights to same-sex relationships was discrimination and that protecting the rights of minorities is the "biggest responsibility" of the court as the "last bastion" of human rights.

Boram Jang, an Amnesty International researcher, said that the ruling "is an important decision that moves South Korea closer to achieving marriage equality." As per him, it goes a long way to offer hope that the prejudice against the LGBTQI+ community can be overcome.

(With inputs from agencies)

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For the first time, a South Korean high court has given legal recognition to same-sex couples. On Tuesday, the Seoul High Court ruled that the state's health insurer should provide spousal coverage to same-sex couples.

For the first time, a South Korean high court has given legal recognition to same-sex couples. On Tuesday, the Seoul High Court ruled that the state's health insurer should provide spousal coverage to same-sex couples. Lawyers and advocates have hailed the ruling as the first legal recognition of same-sex unions in the country. This historic ruling overturns a decision by a lower court which had ruled that a same-sex dependent was ineligible for National Health Insurance Service benefits available to other couples. The couple behind this judgement also expressed their happiness with the ruling and said they were "delighted". "It is not only our victory but also a victory for many same-sex couples and LGBTQ families in Korea," they said. Watch | Blow to LGBTQ rights: Japan rules same-sex marriage ban constitutional However, the national health insurer said that it will file an appeal with the nation's Supreme Court. The couple, So Sung-wook and Kim Yong-min had been embroiled in a legal battle with the National Health Insurance Service since 2021. They had filed a suit against the insurer after being denied spousal benefits. Also read | Same-sex blessing row: In a first, a move against Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby An earlier decision by a lower court had ruled in favour of the insurer. The ruling, as per Reuters, was taken on the grounds that a same-sex union cannot be considered a common law marriage under common law. Yong-min and Sung-wook then contested this ruling. As per their lawyer, Ryu Min-hee, the appellate court in its ruling said that the spousal coverage system under the state health insurance system isn't just for families as defined by the law. Also read | Blow to LGBTQ rights: Japan rules same-sex marriage ban constitutional The court also said that denying rights to same-sex relationships was discrimination and that protecting the rights of minorities is the "biggest responsibility" of the court as the "last bastion" of human rights. Boram Jang, an Amnesty International researcher, said that the ruling "is an important decision that moves South Korea closer to achieving marriage equality." As per him, it goes a long way to offer hope that the prejudice against the LGBTQI+ community can be overcome. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea moves one step closer to legitimising same-sex couples

In what is expected to be a major leap towards legal recognition of same-sex marriages in world's largest democracy, India's top court on Friday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to clear its stance on allowing same-sex marriages in the country.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Friday clubbed and transferred to itself all the petitions asking for the recognition of same-sex marriages. A number of such petitions were pending before various High courts all over the country that will now be heard by India's Supreme Court in New Delhi.&nbsp;

For legal status of same-sex marriages: What is the timeline?

A Supreme Court bench composed of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala has asked the Centre to file a reply to all the petitions asking for legal recognition of same-sex marriages by February 15.&nbsp;

Same-sex marriages in India: When will the Supreme Court hear the petitions?

All the petitions asking for the legal recognition of same-sex marriages will be listed in the form of a single clubbed petition in March 2023.&nbsp;

On same-sex marriages: Modi government's open-ended approach

India's Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the second-highest law officer in the country, pointed to two options on legal status of same-sex marriages in India. One, the top court could await Delhi High Court's verdict on determining the legal status of same sex marriages in India or could transfer all the petitions to itself. The top court took the latter option.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/progressive-or-regressive-was-2022-a-good-year-for-the-lgbtqia-community-heres-the-year-in-review-546768">Progressive or regressive: Was 2022 a good year for the LGBTQIA+ community?</a>

At two different points of time -- in the months of November and December last year -- the Supreme Court had sought a response from the Modi government on the legal status of same-sex marriages in India. The government will now respond to the top court's direction on clearing its stance on determination of legal status of same-sex marriages in India by February 15. &nbsp;

On same sex marriages: What is India's track record so far?

In September 2018, a Supreme Court bench led by the then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra had struck down a part of Section 377 of Indian Penal Code that criminalised same-sex relations in India. Following that landmark verdict, there is a growing uproar in the country for legal recognition of same-sex marriages.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-could-same-sex-marriage-go-the-way-of-abortion-492382">WION Fineprint | Could Same-Sex Marriage Go the Way of Abortion?</a>

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The current intervention could be the first big intervention on LGBTQ rights after the September 2018 Supreme Court verdict.

Same sex marriages: Which countries recognise same-sex couples by law?

Same-sex couples in countries such as the United States, Australia, Ireland, Switzerland, South Africa, Taiwan, Argentina and Canada are legally recognised at par with their heterosexual counterparts.&nbsp;

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In what is expected to be a major leap towards legal recognition of same-sex marriages in world's largest democracy, India's top court on Friday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to clear its stance on allowing same-sex marriages in the country.

In what is expected to be a major leap towards legal recognition of same-sex marriages in world's largest democracy, India's top court on Friday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to clear its stance on allowing same-sex marriages in the country. The Supreme Court on Friday clubbed and transferred to itself all the petitions asking for the recognition of same-sex marriages. A number of such petitions were pending before various High courts all over the country that will now be heard by India's Supreme Court in New Delhi. For legal status of same-sex marriages: What is the timeline? A Supreme Court bench composed of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala has asked the Centre to file a reply to all the petitions asking for legal recognition of same-sex marriages by February 15. Same-sex marriages in India: When will the Supreme Court hear the petitions? All the petitions asking for the legal recognition of same-sex marriages will be listed in the form of a single clubbed petition in March 2023. On same-sex marriages: Modi government's open-ended approach India's Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the second-highest law officer in the country, pointed to two options on legal status of same-sex marriages in India. One, the top court could await Delhi High Court's verdict on determining the legal status of same sex marriages in India or could transfer all the petitions to itself. The top court took the latter option. ALSO READ | Progressive or regressive: Was 2022 a good year for the LGBTQIA+ community? At two different points of time -- in the months of November and December last year -- the Supreme Court had sought a response from the Modi government on the legal status of same-sex marriages in India. The government will now respond to the top court's direction on clearing its stance on determination of legal status of same-sex marriages in India by February 15. On same sex marriages: What is India's track record so far? In September 2018, a Supreme Court bench led by the then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra had struck down a part of Section 377 of Indian Penal Code that criminalised same-sex relations in India. Following that landmark verdict, there is a growing uproar in the country for legal recognition of same-sex marriages. WATCH | WION Fineprint | Could Same-Sex Marriage Go the Way of Abortion? × The current intervention could be the first big intervention on LGBTQ rights after the September 2018 Supreme Court verdict. Same sex marriages: Which countries recognise same-sex couples by law? Same-sex couples in countries such as the United States, Australia, Ireland, Switzerland, South Africa, Taiwan, Argentina and Canada are legally recognised at par with their heterosexual counterparts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's top court steps closer to decide legal status of same-sex couples

The upcoming American midterm elections are creating history; the good kind. For the first time, the elections have LGBTQ candidates running in all 50 US states and the capital Washington.

As per AFP, the monumental milestone comes as the LGBTQ community has become an increasingly significant voting constituency. Analysts predict that the surge in transgender and gay voters might redraw the electoral landscape over the next generation, "nudging the conservative US heartland in a more liberal direction."

Watch |&nbsp;US Midterms 2022: Democrats and Republicans vying for control of Senate

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Currently, the community represents around 10 per cent of American voters, however, as per an October report by a lobby group in collaboration with&nbsp;Bowling Green State University, Ohio, the number will by the end of this decade rise to one in seven or 14-plus per cent.

"Bigots want us to stay home and stay quiet, but their attacks are backfiring and instead have motivated a new wave of LGBTQ leaders to run for office," says Annise Parker, head of the LGBTQ Victory Fund and former Houston mayor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterm-elections-biden-targets-desantis-marco-rubio-during-campaign-rally-in-florida-530463" hreflang="en">US midterm elections: Biden targets DeSantis, Marco Rubio during campaign rally in Florida</a>

Parker's organisation in a recent report found that since 2020 there has been an 18 per cent increase in LGBTQ hopefuls who successfully made it onto ballots.

For the November midterms, 1,065 hopefuls ran primary campaigns and a historic 678 successfully made it onto ballots. AFP reports that almost 90 per cent of the LGBTQ candidates who entered this year's primary races belong to the Democrat party.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democracy-is-at-stake-in-us-midterms-says-obama-at-georgia-rally-529489" hreflang="en">Democracy is at stake in US midterms, says Obama at Georgia rally</a>

Another significant first for the community is Vermont House candidate Becca Balint who would be the only lesbian ever sent by the state to Congress.

Human Rights Campaign (HRC), which is the United States' largest gay rights group pointed out that the candidate statistics stand for significant progress in 2022, a year that saw more than 340 anti-LGBTQ bill proposals across the country. These bills include the controversial 'Don't Say Gay' bills and the ones seeking to ban transgender children from participating in school sports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The upcoming American midterm elections are creating history; the good kind. For the first time, the elections have LGBTQ candidates running in all 50 US states and the capital Washington.

The upcoming American midterm elections are creating history; the good kind. For the first time, the elections have LGBTQ candidates running in all 50 US states and the capital Washington. As per AFP, the monumental milestone comes as the LGBTQ community has become an increasingly significant voting constituency. Analysts predict that the surge in transgender and gay voters might redraw the electoral landscape over the next generation, "nudging the conservative US heartland in a more liberal direction." Watch | US Midterms 2022: Democrats and Republicans vying for control of Senate Currently, the community represents around 10 per cent of American voters, however, as per an October report by a lobby group in collaboration with Bowling Green State University, Ohio, the number will by the end of this decade rise to one in seven or 14-plus per cent. "Bigots want us to stay home and stay quiet, but their attacks are backfiring and instead have motivated a new wave of LGBTQ leaders to run for office," says Annise Parker, head of the LGBTQ Victory Fund and former Houston mayor. Also read | US midterm elections: Biden targets DeSantis, Marco Rubio during campaign rally in Florida Parker's organisation in a recent report found that since 2020 there has been an 18 per cent increase in LGBTQ hopefuls who successfully made it onto ballots. For the November midterms, 1,065 hopefuls ran primary campaigns and a historic 678 successfully made it onto ballots. AFP reports that almost 90 per cent of the LGBTQ candidates who entered this year's primary races belong to the Democrat party. Also read | Democracy is at stake in US midterms, says Obama at Georgia rally Another significant first for the community is Vermont House candidate Becca Balint who would be the only lesbian ever sent by the state to Congress. Human Rights Campaign (HRC), which is the United States' largest gay rights group pointed out that the candidate statistics stand for significant progress in 2022, a year that saw more than 340 anti-LGBTQ bill proposals across the country. These bills include the controversial 'Don't Say Gay' bills and the ones seeking to ban transgender children from participating in school sports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US mid-term elections 2022: In a first, LGBTQ candidates to contest from all 50 states

On Tuesday, the system to register same-sex partnerships opened for applications in Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, said local media reports. This step is largely symbolic since it does not offer the legal benefits of marriage to the LGBTQ community in the country but it is welcomed by rights groups as a small step in the right direction nevertheless.&nbsp;

“The introduction of the system in Tokyo is extremely positive…But partnership is not enough. We basically want legal marriage,” said Soshi Matsuoka, the head of Fair, an LGBTQ rights organization in Tokyo, to the local media. Notably, Japan is the only country in the Group of Seven (G7) major democracies that does not allow same-sex marriage or civil unions. However, several polls have reportedly indicated that people are largely in favour of same-sex unions.

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s website, the system is open for couples of whom at least one partner lives, works or studies in the country’s capital city. The couple must be at least 18 years old and not already married or in a partnership. The website also indicated that the applications must be online, the certificates for which will be available from November 1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-at-turning-point-for-lgbtq-rights-campaigners-390341">Japan at 'turning point' for LGBTQ rights: Campaigners</a>

Local government partnership certification systems have already been introduced in several municipalities across Japan. However, since Tokyo accounts for more than 10% of the country’s population (125 million) its change in policies has a larger impact, said media reports.&nbsp;

Japan has an ageing as well as a shrinking population and the lack of provisions like same-sex marriages, it could adversely affect the country’s ability to compete for talent against dozens of countries who have legalised marriage equality, said industry bodies. However, incumbent Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, leader of the conservative, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has reportedly urged caution on the issue.&nbsp;

While the general public attitudes have been increasingly positive in recent years, some conservative lawmakers are not entirely on board. Earlier this month, an LDP assemblyman in Aichi Prefecture, Noboru Watanabe, was forced to issue an apology following an online post, where he called same-sex marriage “disgusting”, said the local media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-in-major-blow-to-lgbtq-rights-court-rules-same-sex-marriage-ban-is-not-unconstitutional-489900">Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional</a>

Meanwhile, there have been a series of legal cases challenging Japan’s stance of not recognising same-sex marriage. Earlier this year, in March, marked a partial win for the LGBTQ community in the country with a Japanese court ruling that not allowing same-sex couples to get married is “unconstitutional”, which set a precedent for the right in the future.&nbsp;

However, the victory was short-lived as another court in Osaka ruled against the marriage equality right in the month of June. Furthermore, last month in another court ruling the US-national same-sex spouse of a Japanese citizen was refused residency rights and said it was unconstitutional, reported the media, saying that the two had gotten married in the US.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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On Tuesday, the system to register same-sex partnerships opened for applications in Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, said local media reports. This step is largely symbolic since it does not offer the legal benefits of marriage to the LGBTQ community in the country but it is welcomed by rights groups as a small step in the right direction nevertheless.

On Tuesday, the system to register same-sex partnerships opened for applications in Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, said local media reports. This step is largely symbolic since it does not offer the legal benefits of marriage to the LGBTQ community in the country but it is welcomed by rights groups as a small step in the right direction nevertheless. “The introduction of the system in Tokyo is extremely positive…But partnership is not enough. We basically want legal marriage,” said Soshi Matsuoka, the head of Fair, an LGBTQ rights organization in Tokyo, to the local media. Notably, Japan is the only country in the Group of Seven (G7) major democracies that does not allow same-sex marriage or civil unions. However, several polls have reportedly indicated that people are largely in favour of same-sex unions. According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s website, the system is open for couples of whom at least one partner lives, works or studies in the country’s capital city. The couple must be at least 18 years old and not already married or in a partnership. The website also indicated that the applications must be online, the certificates for which will be available from November 1. ALSO READ: Japan at 'turning point' for LGBTQ rights: Campaigners Local government partnership certification systems have already been introduced in several municipalities across Japan. However, since Tokyo accounts for more than 10% of the country’s population (125 million) its change in policies has a larger impact, said media reports. Japan has an ageing as well as a shrinking population and the lack of provisions like same-sex marriages, it could adversely affect the country’s ability to compete for talent against dozens of countries who have legalised marriage equality, said industry bodies. However, incumbent Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, leader of the conservative, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has reportedly urged caution on the issue. While the general public attitudes have been increasingly positive in recent years, some conservative lawmakers are not entirely on board. Earlier this month, an LDP assemblyman in Aichi Prefecture, Noboru Watanabe, was forced to issue an apology following an online post, where he called same-sex marriage “disgusting”, said the local media. ALSO READ: Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional Meanwhile, there have been a series of legal cases challenging Japan’s stance of not recognising same-sex marriage. Earlier this year, in March, marked a partial win for the LGBTQ community in the country with a Japanese court ruling that not allowing same-sex couples to get married is “unconstitutional”, which set a precedent for the right in the future. However, the victory was short-lived as another court in Osaka ruled against the marriage equality right in the month of June. Furthermore, last month in another court ruling the US-national same-sex spouse of a Japanese citizen was refused residency rights and said it was unconstitutional, reported the media, saying that the two had gotten married in the US. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan: Tokyo opens applications for same-sex partnership system

From marriage to death penalty: LGBTQIA rights across the globe

A sensitive approach is required while addressing LGBTQ rights. Not because of the individuals who are part of the community, but because of those outside the community. People still find it difficult to accept the LGBTQ community despite years, if not decades, of advocacy. Now, to represent France's voice in the ongoing struggle Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has announced that the French government will soon create an ambassador's post promoting LGBTQ rights across the world.

Watch |&nbsp;Chinese company's 'coming-out kit' to help LGBTQ community

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AFP reports that on the 40th anniversary of France's repeal of a statute discriminating against homosexuals from the World War II era, Borne told an audience that the new envoy will coordinate the foreign ministry's policies and serve as "France's voice" for the advancement of LGBTQ rights.

As per her "the battle for the minds is not yet won," and the discrimination against the community "continues to exclude, injure and sometimes even kill" people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lgbt-community-parade-in-madrid-demanding-end-of-animal-cruelty-496131">In pics: LGBT community parade in Madrid demanding end of animal cruelty</a>

She also acknowledged that "hurtful comments" were made by members of President Emmanuel Macron's government in the past, but assured that no such "ambivalence" exists now. This is believed to be a reference to a 2013 comment by &nbsp;Regional Affairs Minister Caroline Cayeux, who joined the government in a reshuffle last month.

Speaking in the Senate, Cayeux had said that the proposed legalisation of gay marriage was "against nature."&nbsp;Then, in an apparent effort to defend herself, last month she said: "I have to say that I have a lot of friends among those people," the statement once again incited fury.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-in-major-blow-to-lgbtq-rights-court-rules-same-sex-marriage-ban-is-not-unconstitutional-489900">Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional</a>

During a visit to an LGBTQ centre in Orleans, central France, PM Borne announced that the ambassador will be named by the end of the year.&nbsp;The envoy will "campaign for the decriminalisation everywhere of homosexuality and trans-identity," added Borne.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A sensitive approach is required while addressing LGBTQ rights. Not because of the individuals who are part of the community, but because of those outside the community.

A sensitive approach is required while addressing LGBTQ rights. Not because of the individuals who are part of the community, but because of those outside the community. People still find it difficult to accept the LGBTQ community despite years, if not decades, of advocacy. Now, to represent France's voice in the ongoing struggle Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has announced that the French government will soon create an ambassador's post promoting LGBTQ rights across the world. Watch | Chinese company's 'coming-out kit' to help LGBTQ community AFP reports that on the 40th anniversary of France's repeal of a statute discriminating against homosexuals from the World War II era, Borne told an audience that the new envoy will coordinate the foreign ministry's policies and serve as "France's voice" for the advancement of LGBTQ rights. As per her "the battle for the minds is not yet won," and the discrimination against the community "continues to exclude, injure and sometimes even kill" people. Also read | In pics: LGBT community parade in Madrid demanding end of animal cruelty She also acknowledged that "hurtful comments" were made by members of President Emmanuel Macron's government in the past, but assured that no such "ambivalence" exists now. This is believed to be a reference to a 2013 comment by Regional Affairs Minister Caroline Cayeux, who joined the government in a reshuffle last month. Speaking in the Senate, Cayeux had said that the proposed legalisation of gay marriage was "against nature." Then, in an apparent effort to defend herself, last month she said: "I have to say that I have a lot of friends among those people," the statement once again incited fury. Also read | Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional During a visit to an LGBTQ centre in Orleans, central France, PM Borne announced that the ambassador will be named by the end of the year. The envoy will "campaign for the decriminalisation everywhere of homosexuality and trans-identity," added Borne. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France steps up for LGBTQ rights, to appoint an ambassador by the end of this year

The reversal of Roe v Wade by the United States Supreme Court has created a lot of mixed feelings in the United States. The decision was welcomed by the conservatives and Republicans while the removal of abortion rights resulted to a number of protests around the country. The ruling by justice Clarence Thomas also allowed a sneak peek into the topics that can be up for debate in the aftermath of this ruling. According to the ruling, he suggested that in the future, the Supreme Court can be looking into issues like contraception access, marriage equality and even LGBTQ rights.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-plane-endangered-peace-and-stability-after-flying-through-taiwan-strait-says-china-491610" hreflang="en">US plane's Taiwan Strait flyover ‘endangered peace and stability’: China</a>

“In future cases, we should reconsider all of this court’s substantive due process precedents, including Griswold, Lawrence, and Obergefell,” Thomas wrote in his concurring opinion.

In Lawrence v Texas in 2003, the states could not criminalise sodomy while in Griswold v Connecticut in 1965, the Supreme Court ruled that a married couple can exercise their right to use contraception without any government interference. In 2005, Obergefell v Hodges established the right for same-sex couples to marry. These are mainly the cases mentioned by Justice Thomas in his notes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roe-vs-wade-overturned-vatican-us-bishops-praise-supreme-court-decision-491574">Roe vs Wade overturned: Vatican, US Bishops praise Supreme Court decision</a>

While Justice Samuel Alito said that the decision to reverse Roe v Wade will not have any impact on other major precent cases, it was dismissed by the three liberal judges in the court.

“Either the mass of the majority’s opinion is hypocrisy or additional constitutional rights are under threat,” the liberal justices wrote according to The Guardian. “It is one or the other.”

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The reversal of Roe v Wade by the United States Supreme Court has created a lot of mixed feelings in the United States. The decision was welcomed by the conservatives and Republicans while the removal of abortion rights resulted to a number of protests around the country.

The reversal of Roe v Wade by the United States Supreme Court has created a lot of mixed feelings in the United States. The decision was welcomed by the conservatives and Republicans while the removal of abortion rights resulted to a number of protests around the country. The ruling by justice Clarence Thomas also allowed a sneak peek into the topics that can be up for debate in the aftermath of this ruling. According to the ruling, he suggested that in the future, the Supreme Court can be looking into issues like contraception access, marriage equality and even LGBTQ rights. Also read | US plane's Taiwan Strait flyover ‘endangered peace and stability’: China “In future cases, we should reconsider all of this court’s substantive due process precedents, including Griswold, Lawrence, and Obergefell,” Thomas wrote in his concurring opinion. In Lawrence v Texas in 2003, the states could not criminalise sodomy while in Griswold v Connecticut in 1965, the Supreme Court ruled that a married couple can exercise their right to use contraception without any government interference. In 2005, Obergefell v Hodges established the right for same-sex couples to marry. These are mainly the cases mentioned by Justice Thomas in his notes. Also read | Roe vs Wade overturned: Vatican, US Bishops praise Supreme Court decision While Justice Samuel Alito said that the decision to reverse Roe v Wade will not have any impact on other major precent cases, it was dismissed by the three liberal judges in the court. “Either the mass of the majority’s opinion is hypocrisy or additional constitutional rights are under threat,” the liberal justices wrote according to The Guardian. “It is one or the other.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Contraception, LGBTQ rights: US Supreme Court hints at next possible targets

In a landmark decision that put an end to a six-year legal struggle, Croatia's high administrative court ruled that same-sex couples are eligible to apply for child adoption since any other treatment would be discriminatory and contrary to European tradition.

In 2016, Ivo egota and Marijan Koi applied to adopt a child through a local social centre, but were turned down by a number of institutions, all of which stated that existing Croatian legislation prohibits them from doing so.

The court's decision effectively dismissed an appeal filed by the country's minister of demography, family, and social programmes, which attempted to overturn a similar verdict issued by the Zagreb administrative court in 2021.

"Taking into account the position of the European Court of Human Rights, the Court states that the different treatment of people in similar situations, based exclusively on their sexual orientation, represents a form of discrimination," said the ruling.

Croatia, which joined the European Union in 2013, is a devout Roman Catholic country where the church wields significant power in public life.

Abortion access is becoming increasingly difficult in public hospitals, despite the fact that it is ostensibly provided by law up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, as many doctors refuse to perform it due to conscientious objection. 
&nbsp;

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In a landmark decision that put an end to a six-year legal struggle, Croatia's high administrative court ruled that same-sex couples are eligible to apply for child adoption since any other treatment would be discriminatory and contrary to European tradition.

In a landmark decision that put an end to a six-year legal struggle, Croatia's high administrative court ruled that same-sex couples are eligible to apply for child adoption since any other treatment would be discriminatory and contrary to European tradition. In 2016, Ivo egota and Marijan Koi applied to adopt a child through a local social centre, but were turned down by a number of institutions, all of which stated that existing Croatian legislation prohibits them from doing so. The court's decision effectively dismissed an appeal filed by the country's minister of demography, family, and social programmes, which attempted to overturn a similar verdict issued by the Zagreb administrative court in 2021. "Taking into account the position of the European Court of Human Rights, the Court states that the different treatment of people in similar situations, based exclusively on their sexual orientation, represents a form of discrimination," said the ruling. Croatia, which joined the European Union in 2013, is a devout Roman Catholic country where the church wields significant power in public life. Abortion access is becoming increasingly difficult in public hospitals, despite the fact that it is ostensibly provided by law up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, as many doctors refuse to perform it due to conscientious objection. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

LGBTQ Rights: Same-sex couples can now adopt children in Croatia

At a time when many states, Republican lawmakers across the United States have been passing laws that as per critics are infringing upon LGBTQ rights, US President Joe Biden’s administration has come up with something no less than a boon.

From Monday citizens in the US can now receive a passport with the gender designation “X”.

This comes as a blessing for over 1.2 million Americans who don’t identify with the traditional gender identities, or whose gender identity falls outside the categories of man or woman.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/lets-talk-about-pronouns-baby-gender-pronouns-and-their-importance-425562">Let’s talk about ‘Pronouns’ baby: Gender Pronouns and their importance</a>

However, this move is expected to further fuel tensions in a nation that is already divided on “progressive” reforms like abortion rights and gender issues.

With this now intersex or gender fluid, people would not have to face red-tapism. For most, it is but a small box to tick on an application form but for many like D. Ojeda a non-binary person who on Monday became one of the first Americans to apply for a gender-neutral passport, this is "incredible".

Watch |&nbsp;Fast Facts: LGBTQ Rights Milestones | 'Voices of Pride' | WION Wideangle

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Speaking to AFP, Ojeda, a social activist who uses the pronouns they/them said "Even with my family, they still don't get it, adding "so at least I have the government to say who I am as a person."

Applicants also have the option of selecting a box for ‘gender change’. This reflects that their chosen gender designation differs from their previously held passport and they don't have to provide any medical documentation for the change.

"It feels like the world is safer," said Ojeda.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-issues-first-gender-x-passport-424570">US issues first gender 'X' passport</a> 
 
In October last year, after a long legal battle, an intersex person from Colorado, US was able to win the right to hold a passport with an ‘X’ designation.&nbsp;

Only a few days back on March 31, which is also celebrated as the International Day of Transgender Visibility, the US State Department announced that they’ll be extending this service to all the citizens of America. The department will also undertake some other measures on a federal level that would serve to simplify administrative hurdles for transgender and non-binary people.

(With inputs from agencies)

At a time when many states, Republican lawmakers across the United States have been passing laws that as per critics are infringing upon LGBTQ rights, US President Joe Biden’s administration has come up with something no less than a boon.

At a time when many states, Republican lawmakers across the United States have been passing laws that as per critics are infringing upon LGBTQ rights, US President Joe Biden’s administration has come up with something no less than a boon. From Monday citizens in the US can now receive a passport with the gender designation “X”. This comes as a blessing for over 1.2 million Americans who don’t identify with the traditional gender identities, or whose gender identity falls outside the categories of man or woman. Also read | Let’s talk about ‘Pronouns’ baby: Gender Pronouns and their importance However, this move is expected to further fuel tensions in a nation that is already divided on “progressive” reforms like abortion rights and gender issues. With this now intersex or gender fluid, people would not have to face red-tapism. For most, it is but a small box to tick on an application form but for many like D. Ojeda a non-binary person who on Monday became one of the first Americans to apply for a gender-neutral passport, this is "incredible". Watch | Fast Facts: LGBTQ Rights Milestones | 'Voices of Pride' | WION Wideangle Speaking to AFP, Ojeda, a social activist who uses the pronouns they/them said "Even with my family, they still don't get it, adding "so at least I have the government to say who I am as a person." Applicants also have the option of selecting a box for ‘gender change’. This reflects that their chosen gender designation differs from their previously held passport and they don't have to provide any medical documentation for the change. "It feels like the world is safer," said Ojeda. Also read | US issues first gender 'X' passport In October last year, after a long legal battle, an intersex person from Colorado, US was able to win the right to hold a passport with an ‘X’ designation. Only a few days back on March 31, which is also celebrated as the International Day of Transgender Visibility, the US State Department announced that they’ll be extending this service to all the citizens of America. The department will also undertake some other measures on a federal level that would serve to simplify administrative hurdles for transgender and non-binary people. (With inputs from agencies)

'It feels like the world is safer': Man, woman and...'X', US starts issuing gender-neutral passports

On Tuesday, the Florida state senate passed a controversial bill banning lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in elementary schools, a measure critics say will negatively impact the LGBTQ community.

After passing both chambers of the legislature, the bill goes to Governor Ron DeSantis, who says he supports it.

LGBTQ advocates and opposition Democrats have campaigned against an anti-homophobia law, dubbed "Don't Say&nbsp;Gay," law saying that it will affect kids in kindergarten through third grade when they are 8 to 9 years old.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-texas-transgender-minors-and-their-parents-face-probes-harassment-at-the-hands-of-republican-governor-458016">In Texas, transgender minors and their parents face probes, harassment at the hands of republican governor</a>

&nbsp;

This bill prohibits teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity "in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards."&nbsp;

According to critics, this wording could apply to older children as well.

Republicans counter that teachers and students can actually discuss these issues spontaneously and that the bill only forbids lessons on these topics from being included in school curricula.

In a tweet on Tuesday, US Education Secretary Miguel Cardona criticised the bill: "Leaders in Florida have decided that bills based on hate &amp; discrimination take priority over our students' pandemic recovery."

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Leaders in Florida have decided that bills based on hate &amp; discrimination take priority over our students' pandemic recovery. My team &amp; I stand with our LGBTQ+ students in Florida &amp; across the country &amp; urge Florida leaders to protect &amp; support all students.
— Secretary Miguel Cardona (@SecCardona) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecCardona/status/1501248246806728710?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Advocacy group Equality Florida alleges that state lawmakers have "locked arms with the angry mobs hurling anti-LGBTQ slurs at those asking for nothing more than a safe place to go to school without having to hide who they are."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-man-caught-speeding-blames-putin-and-threat-of-nuclear-war-458512">Florida man caught speeding, blames Putin and threat of nuclear war</a>

Student protesters demonstrated outside the Tallahassee state legislature building before the Senate vote.

Republicans in Florida have been fighting what they call a battle for greater control over what their children learn in school for months.

"We are going to make sure parents are able to send their kid to kindergarten without having some of this stuff injected into some of their school curriculum," DeSantis said Monday at a news conference.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US senators want FDA to allow gay people to donate blood

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In the year 2024, the Republican governor could be a presidential contender for his party - potentially challenging Donald Trump.&nbsp;

There is a similar education war in Florida that emphasises the teaching of critical race theory, the doctrine that racism is an inherent part of the law and legal institutions in America, serving to perpetuate social, economic, and political inequality.

Florida's lower house passed a bill last month prohibiting the teaching of race-oriented subjects in schools.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Tuesday, the Florida state senate passed a controversial bill banning lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in elementary schools, a measure critics say will negatively impact the LGBTQ community.

On Tuesday, the Florida state senate passed a controversial bill banning lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in elementary schools, a measure critics say will negatively impact the LGBTQ community. After passing both chambers of the legislature, the bill goes to Governor Ron DeSantis, who says he supports it. LGBTQ advocates and opposition Democrats have campaigned against an anti-homophobia law, dubbed "Don't Say Gay," law saying that it will affect kids in kindergarten through third grade when they are 8 to 9 years old. Also read | In Texas, transgender minors and their parents face probes, harassment at the hands of republican governor This bill prohibits teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity "in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards." According to critics, this wording could apply to older children as well. Republicans counter that teachers and students can actually discuss these issues spontaneously and that the bill only forbids lessons on these topics from being included in school curricula. In a tweet on Tuesday, US Education Secretary Miguel Cardona criticised the bill: "Leaders in Florida have decided that bills based on hate & discrimination take priority over our students' pandemic recovery." Leaders in Florida have decided that bills based on hate & discrimination take priority over our students' pandemic recovery. My team & I stand with our LGBTQ+ students in Florida & across the country & urge Florida leaders to protect & support all students. — Secretary Miguel Cardona (@SecCardona) March 8, 2022 × Advocacy group Equality Florida alleges that state lawmakers have "locked arms with the angry mobs hurling anti-LGBTQ slurs at those asking for nothing more than a safe place to go to school without having to hide who they are." Also read | Florida man caught speeding, blames Putin and threat of nuclear war Student protesters demonstrated outside the Tallahassee state legislature building before the Senate vote. Republicans in Florida have been fighting what they call a battle for greater control over what their children learn in school for months. "We are going to make sure parents are able to send their kid to kindergarten without having some of this stuff injected into some of their school curriculum," DeSantis said Monday at a news conference. Watch | Gravitas: US senators want FDA to allow gay people to donate blood In the year 2024, the Republican governor could be a presidential contender for his party - potentially challenging Donald Trump. There is a similar education war in Florida that emphasises the teaching of critical race theory, the doctrine that racism is an inherent part of the law and legal institutions in America, serving to perpetuate social, economic, and political inequality. Florida's lower house passed a bill last month prohibiting the teaching of race-oriented subjects in schools. (With inputs from agencies)

A bill 'based on hate & discrimination': Florida passes archaic 'Don't Say Gay' school bill

The Texas attorney general’s remark that gender-affirming surgeries among minors are cases of "child abuse" has triggered an outrage among trans rights groups who see it as an attack on transgender children.

In a legal opinion released this week, Ken Paxton argued that medical care such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgeries "must be halted."

He said the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) "has a responsibility to act accordingly."

"There is no doubt that these procedures are "abuse" under Texas law and thus must be halted," Paxton said in a statement.

"I'll do everything I can to protect against those who take advantage of and harm young Texans," he said.

In response to the opinion, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed DFPS Commissioner Jaime Masters "to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of any reported instances of these abusive procedures in the State of Texas."

It's unclear how much legal standing the order and opinion will have, reported CNN.

The views expressed by the highest officials in Texas were met with condemnation by the trans rights group, who said that "deliberately attacking children and making life harder for them is shocking and un-American."

"Every major medical association in the country supports healthcare for transgender youth, but Republican Gov. Abbott is ignoring experts on children's issues to cruelly and viciously target transgender young people," CEO and president of the LGBTQ non-profit GLAAD, Sarah Kate Ellis, said in a statement.

Texas government has increasingly taken socially conservative stands in recent years, even as&nbsp;its population's political leanings have drifted away from being a Republican state.

The actions come after a series of anti-trans bills that failed to materialise in recent years, some of which would have included preventing transgender Texans from using bathrooms according to their gender identity rather than their biological sex in government buildings and public schools and universities.

According to a study from the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the state has&nbsp;the second highest number of trans people&nbsp;in the US, with some 125,350 adults in Texas identifying as transgender.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Texas attorney general’s remark that gender-affirming surgeries among minors are cases of "child abuse" has triggered an outrage among trans rights groups who see it as an attack on transgender children.

The Texas attorney general’s remark that gender-affirming surgeries among minors are cases of "child abuse" has triggered an outrage among trans rights groups who see it as an attack on transgender children. In a legal opinion released this week, Ken Paxton argued that medical care such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgeries "must be halted." He said the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) "has a responsibility to act accordingly." "There is no doubt that these procedures are "abuse" under Texas law and thus must be halted," Paxton said in a statement. "I'll do everything I can to protect against those who take advantage of and harm young Texans," he said. In response to the opinion, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed DFPS Commissioner Jaime Masters "to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of any reported instances of these abusive procedures in the State of Texas." It's unclear how much legal standing the order and opinion will have, reported CNN. The views expressed by the highest officials in Texas were met with condemnation by the trans rights group, who said that "deliberately attacking children and making life harder for them is shocking and un-American." "Every major medical association in the country supports healthcare for transgender youth, but Republican Gov. Abbott is ignoring experts on children's issues to cruelly and viciously target transgender young people," CEO and president of the LGBTQ non-profit GLAAD, Sarah Kate Ellis, said in a statement. Texas government has increasingly taken socially conservative stands in recent years, even as its population's political leanings have drifted away from being a Republican state. The actions come after a series of anti-trans bills that failed to materialise in recent years, some of which would have included preventing transgender Texans from using bathrooms according to their gender identity rather than their biological sex in government buildings and public schools and universities. According to a study from the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the state has the second highest number of trans people in the US, with some 125,350 adults in Texas identifying as transgender. (With inputs from agencies)

Texas attorney general calls gender-affirming surgeries ‘child abuse’, sparks outrage

The Chinese law recognizes same-sex couples but legal sanctions have not been accorded to gay marriages. However, under XI Jinping the LGBTQ community is increasingly feeling the heat. WION brings you a report.

Same sex marriages are not recognized under Chinese law

On the 51st anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, an event that catalysed the gay rights movement in June 1969, we bring you powerful 'Voices of Pride' from India on WION Wideangle. Despite being in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the LGBTQ+ community is keeping the dialogue alive. Hotelier Keshav Suri, Chef Ritu Dalmia, HIV and Gay Rights Activist Gautam Yadav , Equal Rights Activist Harish Iyer and Nitasha Biswas- India’s First Transgender Beauty Contest Winner speak to WION about gay pride and gay rights.

Fast Facts: LGBTQ Rights Milestones | 'Voices of Pride' |  WION Wideangle

Four lesbian women are suing a US state for discrimination for insisting women have unprotected sex with a man to prove they are infertile and claim insurance cover for treatment. 
 
In a landmark case, the women filed the complaint after being rejected by their insurer for infertility treatment, and arguing the law discriminated against infertile gay women by forcing them, not straight women, to pay for procedures.&nbsp;Two of the women, Erin and Marianne Krupa, a couple, spent more than $25,000 on failed infertility treatment in five months after their insurance claim was rejected, the complaint said. 
 
The civil complaint filed in a federal court in the state of New Jersey adds to an ongoing debate in the United States about the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. 
 
Grace Cathryn Cretcher, an attorney for the women, said she believed this was the first case of its kind with the women trying to change the legal definition of infertility to make it easier for future lesbian couples seeking to have a baby. 
 
According to the suit, the law in New Jersey defines infertility as when a woman cannot conceive after a year or more of unprotected intercourse.&nbsp;Susan Sommer, a spokeswoman for Lambda Legal, a New York City-based LGBT rights group, said insurance standards needed to be updated for same-sex couples to receive full equality, 
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<h5>This lawsuit reflects the frustration and indignities lesbian and gay people endure because state laws and insurance rules continue to presume the only parents are heterosexual parents,&quot; Susan Sommer said in a statement</h5>
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<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=This lawsuit reflects the frustration and indignities lesbian and gay people endure because state laws and insurance rules continue to presume the only parents are heterosexual parents,&quot; Susan Sommer said in a statement" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
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The four women are seeking an order declaring the New Jersey insurance law is unconstitutional and discriminatory and also an injunction ordering the state to expand insurance cover for infertility to women in same-sex relationships. 
 
New Jersey is one of 15 US states to have passed laws that require insurance companies to cover infertility diagnosis and treatment, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, which tracks state laws.&nbsp;So far California and Maryland are the only states to have updated their definitions of infertility to include gay couples. 
 
The lawsuit, filed in a Newark court last week, names the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance&#39;s commissioner, Richard J Badolato, as the defendant. It did not list a defense attorney.&nbsp;A government spokesman said the department &quot;does not comment on pending or ongoing litigation&quot;. 
 
The Krupas and the two other women, Sol Mejias and Sarah Mills, were all clients of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the complaint said.&nbsp;A spokesman for the company said the suit takes issue with the law and not Horizon, which covers &quot;infertility services equally, regardless of sexual orientation&quot;. 
 
The company eventually agreed to pay for infertility treatment for Krupa, the complaint said, but it was not successful.&nbsp;&quot;Horizon is committed to equality, values our LGBTQ members, and is sensitive to their unique healthcare challenges and needs,&quot; the insurance company said in an email. 
 
(Reuters)

The four women seek an injunction ordering the state to expand insurance coverage for infertility to women in same-sex relationships

Four lesbian women are suing a US state for discrimination for insisting women have unprotected sex with a man to prove they are infertile and claim insurance cover for treatment. In a landmark case, the women filed the complaint after being rejected by their insurer for infertility treatment, and arguing the law discriminated against infertile gay women by forcing them, not straight women, to pay for procedures. Two of the women, Erin and Marianne Krupa, a couple, spent more than $25,000 on failed infertility treatment in five months after their insurance claim was rejected, the complaint said. The civil complaint filed in a federal court in the state of New Jersey adds to an ongoing debate in the United States about the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Grace Cathryn Cretcher, an attorney for the women, said she believed this was the first case of its kind with the women trying to change the legal definition of infertility to make it easier for future lesbian couples seeking to have a baby. According to the suit, the law in New Jersey defines infertility as when a woman cannot conceive after a year or more of unprotected intercourse. Susan Sommer, a spokeswoman for Lambda Legal, a New York City-based LGBT rights group, said insurance standards needed to be updated for same-sex couples to receive full equality, This lawsuit reflects the frustration and indignities lesbian and gay people endure because state laws and insurance rules continue to presume the only parents are heterosexual parents," Susan Sommer said in a statement The four women are seeking an order declaring the New Jersey insurance law is unconstitutional and discriminatory and also an injunction ordering the state to expand insurance cover for infertility to women in same-sex relationships. New Jersey is one of 15 US states to have passed laws that require insurance companies to cover infertility diagnosis and treatment, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, which tracks state laws. So far California and Maryland are the only states to have updated their definitions of infertility to include gay couples. The lawsuit, filed in a Newark court last week, names the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance's commissioner, Richard J Badolato, as the defendant. It did not list a defense attorney. A government spokesman said the department "does not comment on pending or ongoing litigation". The Krupas and the two other women, Sol Mejias and Sarah Mills, were all clients of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the complaint said. A spokesman for the company said the suit takes issue with the law and not Horizon, which covers "infertility services equally, regardless of sexual orientation". The company eventually agreed to pay for infertility treatment for Krupa, the complaint said, but it was not successful. "Horizon is committed to equality, values our LGBTQ members, and is sensitive to their unique healthcare challenges and needs," the insurance company said in an email. (Reuters)

Four lesbians sue US state for insisting sex with a man proves infertility

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