Panama's Supreme Court has ruled against same-sex marriages, saying it's not a human right and, therefore, the country does not recognise such unions.&nbsp;

The court in its ruling dated Feb 16, said, "there is a reality, and it is that, until now, the right to equal marriage is no more than an aspiration, even though a legitimate one for the groups involved, and it does not fall into the category of a human right or a fundamental right."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ban-on-same-sex-marriage-not-unconstitutional-japanese-pm-kishida-567288">Also read |&nbsp;Ban on same-sex marriage not unconstitutional: Japanese PM Kishida</a>

The court had been considering the issue since 2016, after several appeals from same-sex couples claiming the country's family code "unconstitutional," as it only recognises marriage between a man and woman.

The same-sex couples filed the suit attempting to make their marriages legal in the Central American country, like many other developed countries.&nbsp;

However, the court said that no matter how many changes happen in reality, for now, gay marriages lack "conventional and constitutional recognition."

It added that the family code is objectively and reasonably justified in the general interests of giving precedence to those unions capable of establishing families, giving continuity to humans and society.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-moves-one-step-closer-to-legitimising-same-sex-couples-564432">Also read |&nbsp;South Korea moves one step closer to legitimising same-sex couples</a>

Reacting to the Feb 16 ruling, Ivan Chanis, president of the gay rights organisation Fundacion Iguales told AFP, “ the Panamanian justice system has rejected the recognition of the dignity of same-sex couples and their right to build a family in Panama.”

As per AFP, the Catholic Church which opposes same-sex couples holds a strong influence in Panama.

Currently, Costa Rica remains the only Central American country to recognise same-sex marriages.

(with inputs&nbsp;from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

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Panama's Supreme Court has ruled against same-sex marriages, saying it's not a human right and, therefore, the country does not recognise such unions. The court in its ruling dated Feb 16, said, "there is a reality, and it is that, until now, the right to equal marriage is no more than an aspiration, even though a legitimate one for the groups involved, and it does not fall into the category of a human right or a fundamental right.

Panama's Supreme Court has ruled against same-sex marriages, saying it's not a human right and, therefore, the country does not recognise such unions. The court in its ruling dated Feb 16, said, "there is a reality, and it is that, until now, the right to equal marriage is no more than an aspiration, even though a legitimate one for the groups involved, and it does not fall into the category of a human right or a fundamental right." Also read | Ban on same-sex marriage not unconstitutional: Japanese PM Kishida The court had been considering the issue since 2016, after several appeals from same-sex couples claiming the country's family code "unconstitutional," as it only recognises marriage between a man and woman. The same-sex couples filed the suit attempting to make their marriages legal in the Central American country, like many other developed countries. However, the court said that no matter how many changes happen in reality, for now, gay marriages lack "conventional and constitutional recognition." It added that the family code is objectively and reasonably justified in the general interests of giving precedence to those unions capable of establishing families, giving continuity to humans and society. Also read | South Korea moves one step closer to legitimising same-sex couples Reacting to the Feb 16 ruling, Ivan Chanis, president of the gay rights organisation Fundacion Iguales told AFP, “ the Panamanian justice system has rejected the recognition of the dignity of same-sex couples and their right to build a family in Panama.” As per AFP, the Catholic Church which opposes same-sex couples holds a strong influence in Panama. Currently, Costa Rica remains the only Central American country to recognise same-sex marriages. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Not a human right': Panama's Supreme Court rules against same-sex marriages, unions express disappointment

In a big development, the Church of England's governing body has endorsed plans to let priests offer blessings to same-sec couples. This comes hours after the acrimonious debates highlighting deep Anglican divisions on the issue.

UK: Church of England to let priests offer blessings to same-sex couples

From major climate and social funding to protections of same-sex marriage and investigations into former US President Donald Trump, the democratic lawmakers had a busy year holding the majority in both Senate and the house. Watch the video to know more.

WION VOA: Busy year for democratic lawmakers

A landmark bill that will give federal protection&nbsp;to same-sex marriage was passed by the US Congress on Thursday (December 8).&nbsp;The bill was passed after a vote of 258-169, with all of the chamber's Democrats and 39 Republicans voting in favour. On the other hand, 169 of the chamber's Republicans voted against it and one voted "present".&nbsp;

President Joe Biden, who vouched for the bill, has promised that he will quickly sign the measure into law. It will be called the Respect for Marriage Act.&nbsp;

The bill had won the senate's approval last month with a vote of 61-36. Shortly before the vote, outgoing House Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi said: "Today this chamber proudly stands with the forces of freedom."&nbsp;

Today's vote was needed to reconcile minor differences with the Senate's version.&nbsp;

Pelosi tweeted on Thursday, "I began my career fighting for LGBTQ communities and now, one of the final bills that I will sign as Speaker will ensure the federal government never again stands in the way of marrying the person you love."&nbsp;

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I began my career fighting for LGBTQ communities — and now, one of the final bills that I will sign as Speaker will ensure the federal government never again stands in the way of marrying the person you love. 
 
Read my op-ed on the Respect for Marriage Act: <a href="https://t.co/UyIE8vJlIG">https://t.co/UyIE8vJlIG</a>
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerPelosi/status/1600838293473878017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Join <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenSchumer</a>, Members of <a href="https://twitter.com/LGBTEqCaucus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LGBTEqCaucus</a>, advocates and me at the U.S. Capitol to sign the Respect for Marriage Act, a major victory for freedom, dignity and equality by enshrining into federal law marriage equality for same sex and interracial couples. <a href="https://t.co/dDlvZiczxd">https://t.co/dDlvZiczxd</a>
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerPelosi/status/1600891430905335817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During the debate, David Cicilline, a Democrat from Rhode Island said, "I urge all those here today who previously voted against this bill to reconsider, be part of history, and join us in voting for its passage today. Today’s vote is a monumental win in the fight LBTQ+ equality but the work does not stop here. We remain the only minority group in America where in a majority of states it still legal to discriminate against us in several key areas of life."&nbsp;

Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio said, "For years, the Democrats have been playing a dangerous game with the Court. They want Americans to believe that the Court lacks transparency and struggles with its ethics, simply not true. This bill is simply the latest installment of the Democrats campaign to intimidate the highest Court in our land."&nbsp;

After the passage of the bill,&nbsp;a 1996 US&nbsp;law called the Defense of Marriage Act will be revoked. It had denied federal benefits to same-sex couples. It bars states from rejecting the validity of out-of-state marriages on the basis of sex, race or ethnicity.

The Supreme Court in 1967 declared prohibitions on interracial marriage unconstitutional.&nbsp;

Now, the new legislation does not require states to legalize same-sex marriage but does require them to recognize a marriage so long as it was valid in the state where it was performed.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A landmark bill that will give federal protection to same-sex marriage was passed by the US Congress on Thursday (December 8). The bill was passed after a vote of 258-169, with all of the chamber's Democrats and 39 Republicans voting in favour.

A landmark bill that will give federal protection to same-sex marriage was passed by the US Congress on Thursday (December 8). The bill was passed after a vote of 258-169, with all of the chamber's Democrats and 39 Republicans voting in favour. On the other hand, 169 of the chamber's Republicans voted against it and one voted "present". President Joe Biden, who vouched for the bill, has promised that he will quickly sign the measure into law. It will be called the Respect for Marriage Act. The bill had won the senate's approval last month with a vote of 61-36. Shortly before the vote, outgoing House Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi said: "Today this chamber proudly stands with the forces of freedom." Today's vote was needed to reconcile minor differences with the Senate's version. Pelosi tweeted on Thursday, "I began my career fighting for LGBTQ communities and now, one of the final bills that I will sign as Speaker will ensure the federal government never again stands in the way of marrying the person you love." I began my career fighting for LGBTQ communities — and now, one of the final bills that I will sign as Speaker will ensure the federal government never again stands in the way of marrying the person you love. Read my op-ed on the Respect for Marriage Act: https://t.co/UyIE8vJlIG — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) December 8, 2022 × Join @SenSchumer, Members of @LGBTEqCaucus, advocates and me at the U.S. Capitol to sign the Respect for Marriage Act, a major victory for freedom, dignity and equality by enshrining into federal law marriage equality for same sex and interracial couples. https://t.co/dDlvZiczxd — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) December 8, 2022 × During the debate, David Cicilline, a Democrat from Rhode Island said, "I urge all those here today who previously voted against this bill to reconsider, be part of history, and join us in voting for its passage today. Today’s vote is a monumental win in the fight LBTQ+ equality but the work does not stop here. We remain the only minority group in America where in a majority of states it still legal to discriminate against us in several key areas of life." Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio said, "For years, the Democrats have been playing a dangerous game with the Court. They want Americans to believe that the Court lacks transparency and struggles with its ethics, simply not true. This bill is simply the latest installment of the Democrats campaign to intimidate the highest Court in our land." After the passage of the bill, a 1996 US law called the Defense of Marriage Act will be revoked. It had denied federal benefits to same-sex couples. It bars states from rejecting the validity of out-of-state marriages on the basis of sex, race or ethnicity. The Supreme Court in 1967 declared prohibitions on interracial marriage unconstitutional. Now, the new legislation does not require states to legalize same-sex marriage but does require them to recognize a marriage so long as it was valid in the state where it was performed. (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: Landmark bill to protect same-sex marriage passed by Congress

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday debated a major case pitting LGBT rights. The dispute involves an evangelical Christian web designer who refuses to provide her services for same-sex marriages.

US Supreme Court debates web designer's anti-gay marriage stance

A Japanese court has ruled that the country's decades-old constitution's definition of marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes" is legal.&nbsp;The Tokyo court, however, added that the country's failure to legally protect same-sex partners creates an "unconstitutional situation".

"The current lack of legal framework that allows same-sex partners to become family is a serious threat and obstacle" to individual dignity and "this creates an unconstitutional situation with regards to clause two of article 24," said the court in its ruling.

Watch |&nbsp;Blow to LGBTQ rights: Japan rules same-sex marriage ban constitutional

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In March of last year, a court in Sapporo made a similar ruling, while an Osaka court ruling from June of this year deemed that a ban on same-sex marriage was constitutional.&nbsp;

Japan remains the only country in the G7 group of nations that does not allow same-sex marriage.

The ruling comes in a case in which eight people (four same-sex couples) had demanded one million yen ($7,208) each in damages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/old-school-japan-recognises-same-sex-relationships-530232">Old-school Japan's progressive Tokyo: City recognises same-sex relationships</a>

Even though their demand for damages was rejected, the group hailed the ruling as "a big step forwards".

Chizuka Oe, one of the plaintiffs, as per Reuters, said "There was progress" adding that even though the "judiciary delegated it to the legislature, I hope that the legislature will actively deliberate about it (same-sex marriage)".

Talking to AFP, another person said that the ruling "went as far as to criticise the lack of a legal system that allows same-sex couples to become family."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-passes-the-respect-for-marriage-act-protecting-same-sex-marriages-know-all-about-it-and-its-history-538761">US Senate passes the Respect for Marriage Act protecting same-sex marriages, know all about it and its history</a>

"But an 'unconstitutional situation' is more nuanced than an outright declaration of unconstitutionality, which is a bit disappointing," they added.

In recent years, Japan which is a country deeply rooted in traditional values has taken small steps towards embracing sexual diversity. Early last month, the country's capital Japan even started issuing partnership certificates to LGBTQ couples. While these certificates do not confer the same legal rights as marriage, it is still a welcome development for couples who previously lacked official documentation of their relationship.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Japanese court has ruled that the country's decades-old constitution's definition of marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes" is legal.

A Japanese court has ruled that the country's decades-old constitution's definition of marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes" is legal. The Tokyo court, however, added that the country's failure to legally protect same-sex partners creates an "unconstitutional situation". "The current lack of legal framework that allows same-sex partners to become family is a serious threat and obstacle" to individual dignity and "this creates an unconstitutional situation with regards to clause two of article 24," said the court in its ruling. Watch | Blow to LGBTQ rights: Japan rules same-sex marriage ban constitutional In March of last year, a court in Sapporo made a similar ruling, while an Osaka court ruling from June of this year deemed that a ban on same-sex marriage was constitutional. Japan remains the only country in the G7 group of nations that does not allow same-sex marriage. The ruling comes in a case in which eight people (four same-sex couples) had demanded one million yen ($7,208) each in damages. Also read | Old-school Japan's progressive Tokyo: City recognises same-sex relationships Even though their demand for damages was rejected, the group hailed the ruling as "a big step forwards". Chizuka Oe, one of the plaintiffs, as per Reuters, said "There was progress" adding that even though the "judiciary delegated it to the legislature, I hope that the legislature will actively deliberate about it (same-sex marriage)". Talking to AFP, another person said that the ruling "went as far as to criticise the lack of a legal system that allows same-sex couples to become family." Also read | US Senate passes the Respect for Marriage Act protecting same-sex marriages, know all about it and its history "But an 'unconstitutional situation' is more nuanced than an outright declaration of unconstitutionality, which is a bit disappointing," they added. In recent years, Japan which is a country deeply rooted in traditional values has taken small steps towards embracing sexual diversity. Early last month, the country's capital Japan even started issuing partnership certificates to LGBTQ couples. While these certificates do not confer the same legal rights as marriage, it is still a welcome development for couples who previously lacked official documentation of their relationship. (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.

Tokyo court upholds gay marriage ban, but says same-sex partners face "unconstitutional situation"

In a landmark decision, the US Senate passed a bill on Tuesday to protect same-sex marriage as the house senate voted 61-36 for the Respect for Marriage Act.

US Senate passes landmark vote to protect same-sex marriage

Days after the popular children's TV show Peppa Pig made history by introducing its first same-sex couple, an Italian political leader demanded an immediate ban on the cartoon series.

Days after the popular children's TV show Peppa Pig made history by introducing its first same-sex couple, an Italian political leader demanded an immediate ban on the cartoon series. Reportedly, Federico Mollicone, a senior leader of Brothers of Italy, a far-right Italian political party, stated that it would be 'unacceptable' to air the episode in Italy and appealed to the state broadcaster 'Rai' to ban the same. “We cannot accept gender indoctrination. Once again the politically correct has struck, at the expense of our children. Can’t children just be children?” said Mollicone. “We ask Rai, which buys the rights to the Peppa Pig series in Italy with a fee from all Italians, not to broadcast the episode in question on any channel or web platform,” he further added. It is pertinent to note that Mollicone's party is touted to win the upcoming elections. Giorgia Meloni, the top leader of Brothers of Italy is against same-sex parenting as well as marriage. Thus, even if the state broadcasters do not remove the episode right away, it would be taken off when the party assumes power. The episode has already aired in the UK As reported by WION, an episode titled 'Families' aired for the first time in the UK on Tuesday, showed two co-parenting same-sex polar bears. It was for the first time in the show's 18-year long history that an LGTBQ+ couple had found a mention. "I'm Penny Polar Bear. I live with my mummy and my other mummy. One mummy is a doctor and one mummy cooks spaghetti. I love spaghetti," announces Penny. Read more: Peppa Pig creates history as it introduces its first same-sex couple Peppa Pig, which debuted on TV in May 2004, is one of the TV shows most watched by pre-schoolers worldwide. The show is about the titular characters enjoying day-to-day activities. The series also includes Peppa's friends, Suzi Sheep and Danny Dog and Penny Polar Bear. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Italian politician demands ban on Peppa Pig episode showing same-sex couple

The US Supreme Court decision ending the right to abortion established by Roe Vs Wade in 1973 has put other hard-won rights at risk, including the rights to same-sex marriage and contraception. Could same-sex marriage go the way of abortion? Molly Gambhir tells you.

WION Fineprint | Could Same-Sex Marriage Go the Way of Abortion?

Thailand took a step towards marriage equality Wednesday as lawmakers gave initial approval to legalising same-sex unions, prompting celebrations outside the parliament building.

It is a significant landmark in a Buddhist-majority country with a highly visible LGBTQ community but whose members still face major barriers and discrimination.

The legislation must clear several more hurdles before becoming law. If it succeeds, Thailand would be the first country in Southeast Asia to recognise same sex unions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-opposition-files-no-confidence-motion-against-flawed-pm-488416">Thai opposition files no-confidence motion against 'flawed' PM</a>

The lower house approved two bills that would allow same-sex marriages and also two others that would permit civil partnerships.

A committee of lawmakers will now scrutinise the bills in detail and consolidate them into two proposals, to give MPs a choice between backing civil partnerships and full same-sex marriage.

After the vote a small but enthusiastic group of activists celebrated noisily outside parliament, weeping, hugging and waving rainbow flags.

"I am very happy and glad, it is a good sign in Pride month that there are MPs who want equality and vote for the bills," LGBTQ activist Nada Chaiyajit told AFP.

"But there is a long way to go."

Watch |&nbsp;Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use?

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Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the opposition Move Forward Party which proposed one of the same-sex marriage bills, said the vote should give people hope.

"Today is an answer that politics is possible here in Thailand," Pita told the celebrating activists outside parliament.&nbsp;

"No matter who you are, there is a place for you in this country."

Demands for marriage equality were a theme at Bangkok's Pride parade earlier this month the Thai capital's first such event in nearly 16 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-giving-away-one-million-marijuana-plants-to-develop-as-cash-crop-486934">Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop</a>

Ryan Figueiredo, executive director of LGBT rights campaign group the Equal Asia Foundation, welcomed the vote but warned "there is a lot of work to be done on the ground in terms of moving the needle of public opinion and also talking to parliamentarians."

Figueiredo also urged the Thai parliament to back full marriage.

"Civil partnerships are not equal to marriage equality, it creates an entire different class of people," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"Civil partnerships seem like a consolation prize."

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Thailand took a step towards marriage equality Wednesday as lawmakers gave initial approval to legalising same-sex unions, prompting celebrations outside the parliament building.

Thailand took a step towards marriage equality Wednesday as lawmakers gave initial approval to legalising same-sex unions, prompting celebrations outside the parliament building. It is a significant landmark in a Buddhist-majority country with a highly visible LGBTQ community but whose members still face major barriers and discrimination. The legislation must clear several more hurdles before becoming law. If it succeeds, Thailand would be the first country in Southeast Asia to recognise same sex unions. Also read | Thai opposition files no-confidence motion against 'flawed' PM The lower house approved two bills that would allow same-sex marriages and also two others that would permit civil partnerships. A committee of lawmakers will now scrutinise the bills in detail and consolidate them into two proposals, to give MPs a choice between backing civil partnerships and full same-sex marriage. After the vote a small but enthusiastic group of activists celebrated noisily outside parliament, weeping, hugging and waving rainbow flags. "I am very happy and glad, it is a good sign in Pride month that there are MPs who want equality and vote for the bills," LGBTQ activist Nada Chaiyajit told AFP. "But there is a long way to go." Watch | Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use? Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the opposition Move Forward Party which proposed one of the same-sex marriage bills, said the vote should give people hope. "Today is an answer that politics is possible here in Thailand," Pita told the celebrating activists outside parliament. "No matter who you are, there is a place for you in this country." Demands for marriage equality were a theme at Bangkok's Pride parade earlier this month the Thai capital's first such event in nearly 16 years. Also read | Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop Ryan Figueiredo, executive director of LGBT rights campaign group the Equal Asia Foundation, welcomed the vote but warned "there is a lot of work to be done on the ground in terms of moving the needle of public opinion and also talking to parliamentarians." Figueiredo also urged the Thai parliament to back full marriage. "Civil partnerships are not equal to marriage equality, it creates an entire different class of people," he told AFP. "Civil partnerships seem like a consolation prize." 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.

Thailand takes step towards same-sex marriage with parliament vote

Chile's Javier Silva and Jaime Nazar became the first two men to tie the knot in the South American country's history after a law allowing same-sex marriage went into effect.

Chile's first gay couple weds

Lawmakers in Chile on Tuesday legalized same-sex marriage, a landmark victory for gay rights activists that underscores how profoundly the country’s politics and society have shifted in the past decade.

By overwhelming majorities in both chambers, lawmakers put the unions of same-sex couples on par with others, making Chile the 31st nation to allow same-sex marriage and taking a significant step toward consolidating it as the norm in Latin America.

President Sebastían Piñera, a longtime opponent of same-sex marriage, startled the political establishment in June by coming out in favor of such unions. He urged Congress to prioritize passing a bill that had languished for years, ensuring the legislation will be among the last achievements of a turbulent presidency.

The measure will be signed into law at the final stretch of Chile’s presidential race, in which the leading candidates are bitterly at odds on a vast array of issues, including same-sex marriage.

While the movement for same-sex marriage has advanced slowly in much of the world in recent years, the vast majority of Latin Americans now live in countries where those unions are legal. In some large nations, including Brazil and Mexico, the right has been conferred by the courts.

The fight to extend the right to marriage to same-sex couples in Chile began in September 2010, when César Peralta and Hans Arias, a couple who were raising two children, walked into a government office in Santiago and asked to be married, knowing full well their request would be denied.

It was the first salvo of a legal battle that unfolded for more than a decade before judges at home and abroad.

Chile’s new law will enable same-sex parents to have parental rights over the biological or adopted children of a spouse and creates standard rules on inheritance and other financial matters.

Peralta and Arias split up in 2014. But Peralta said the dissolution of the relationship does not make Tuesday’s victory any less significant. While they were in the public spotlight, the couple endured ridicule and criticism, including from Chileans who said they should not be allowed to raise Peralta’s two biological children.

“I’m proud of what I’ve done,” he said. “I confronted people who said the state should take away my children.”

Lawmakers in Chile on Tuesday legalized same-sex marriage, a landmark victory for gay rights activists that underscores how profoundly the country’s politics and society have shifted in the past decade.

Lawmakers in Chile on Tuesday legalized same-sex marriage, a landmark victory for gay rights activists that underscores how profoundly the country’s politics and society have shifted in the past decade. By overwhelming majorities in both chambers, lawmakers put the unions of same-sex couples on par with others, making Chile the 31st nation to allow same-sex marriage and taking a significant step toward consolidating it as the norm in Latin America. President Sebastían Piñera, a longtime opponent of same-sex marriage, startled the political establishment in June by coming out in favor of such unions. He urged Congress to prioritize passing a bill that had languished for years, ensuring the legislation will be among the last achievements of a turbulent presidency. The measure will be signed into law at the final stretch of Chile’s presidential race, in which the leading candidates are bitterly at odds on a vast array of issues, including same-sex marriage. While the movement for same-sex marriage has advanced slowly in much of the world in recent years, the vast majority of Latin Americans now live in countries where those unions are legal. In some large nations, including Brazil and Mexico, the right has been conferred by the courts. The fight to extend the right to marriage to same-sex couples in Chile began in September 2010, when César Peralta and Hans Arias, a couple who were raising two children, walked into a government office in Santiago and asked to be married, knowing full well their request would be denied. It was the first salvo of a legal battle that unfolded for more than a decade before judges at home and abroad. Chile’s new law will enable same-sex parents to have parental rights over the biological or adopted children of a spouse and creates standard rules on inheritance and other financial matters. Peralta and Arias split up in 2014. But Peralta said the dissolution of the relationship does not make Tuesday’s victory any less significant. While they were in the public spotlight, the couple endured ridicule and criticism, including from Chileans who said they should not be allowed to raise Peralta’s two biological children. “I’m proud of what I’ve done,” he said. “I confronted people who said the state should take away my children.”

Chile legalises same-sex marriage at fraught political moment

Switzerland agreed to legalise civil marriage and the right to adopt children for same-sex couples by a nearly two-thirds majority in a referendum on Sunday, making it one of the last countries in Western Europe to legalise gay marriage.

Switzerland votes to make same-sex marriage legal by near two-thirds majority

Havana's main avenue on Monday saw a rainbow flag draped over a government building as lawmakers prepared a new code that could allow same-sex marriage in Cuba.

Gay pride flag unfurled on Cuban gov't building for first time

After a grim year of coronavirus pandemic, Switzerland is hoping to bring in some colourful news. The country will be holding a referendum on whether or not same-sex marriage should be made legal.

In December 2020, the Swiss parliament had passed a bill recognising same-sex marriage after years of protest against the discriminatory rules.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-vatican-shuts-the-door-on-same-sex-unions-371252">Watch |</a>

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Now, the critics have gathered 61,027 signatures in favour of taking this to a national vote, Switzerland’s federal chancellery said on Tuesday.

The court will be setting a date for this but the vote will not be held before September. For the vote, the citizens will be sent envelopes with ballot papers and voter information. They will be asked to cast their vote on a range of questions.

This push has come as a cross-party initiative with the slogan “Yes to marriage and family, no to marriage for everyone”. As of now, some people in the country put down same-sex marriage as ‘fake’ and believe marriage between a man and a woman is the only ‘natural’ way.

After a grim year of coronavirus pandemic, Switzerland is hoping to bring in some colourful news. The country will be holding a referendum on whether or not same-sex marriage should be made legal.

After a grim year of coronavirus pandemic, Switzerland is hoping to bring in some colourful news. The country will be holding a referendum on whether or not same-sex marriage should be made legal. In December 2020, the Swiss parliament had passed a bill recognising same-sex marriage after years of protest against the discriminatory rules. Watch | Now, the critics have gathered 61,027 signatures in favour of taking this to a national vote, Switzerland’s federal chancellery said on Tuesday. The court will be setting a date for this but the vote will not be held before September. For the vote, the citizens will be sent envelopes with ballot papers and voter information. They will be asked to cast their vote on a range of questions. This push has come as a cross-party initiative with the slogan “Yes to marriage and family, no to marriage for everyone”. As of now, some people in the country put down same-sex marriage as ‘fake’ and believe marriage between a man and a woman is the only ‘natural’ way.

Switzerland to hold referendum on legal status of same-sex marriages

The&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;said on Monday that priests and other Roman Catholic Church ministers cannot bless same-sex unions and that such blessings are "not licit" if carried out.

The ruling was a response to practices in some countries, such as the United States and Germany, where parishes and ministers have begun blessing same-sex unions in lieu of marriage, and calls for bishops to defacto institutionalise these.

In response to formal questions from a number of dioceses on whether this practice was allowed, the&nbsp;Vatican's doctrinal office, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF), issued the ruling: "Negative".

Pope Francis approved the response, the CDF said, adding that it was "not intended to be a form of unjust discrimination, but rather a reminder of the truth of the liturgical rite".

It said such blessings were not permissible even though they were "motivated by a sincere desire to welcome and accompany homosexual persons" and help them grow in the faith. The Roman Catholic Church has 1.3 billion members.

The CDF note said that since marriage between a man and a woman was a sacrament and blessings are related to the sacrament of marriage, they could not be extended to same-sex couples.

"For this reason, it is not licit to impart a blessing on relationships, or partnerships, even stable, that involve sexual activity outside of marriage (i.e., outside the indissoluble union of a man and a woman open in itself to the transmission of life), as is the case of the unions between persons of the same sex," it said.

At least two German bishops, including Cardinal Reinhard Marx of Munich, who is one of the pope's top advisors, have expressed support for some kind of "pastoral" blessing for same-sex unions.

But the CDF note approved by the pope ruled this out.

"The presence in such relationships of positive elements, which are in themselves to be valued and appreciated, cannot justify these relationships and render them legitimate objects of an ecclesial blessing, since the positive elements exist within the context of a union not ordered to the Creator’s plan," the note said.

The Church teaches that gay tendencies are not sinful but gay acts are and that gay people must be treated with respect.

Last year, the&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;had to move to clarify comment attributed to Pope Francis on civil union laws in a documentary, saying they were taken out of context and did not signal a change in Church doctrine on gay people or support for same-sex marriage.

The comments attributed to the pope in the film alarmed conservatives.

Reporters later discovered that two separate quotes in response to separate questions were spliced to appear as one, deleting the intervening context and questions.

The Vatican said on Monday that priests and other Roman Catholic Church ministers cannot bless same-sex unions and that such blessings are "not licit" if carried out.

The Vatican said on Monday that priests and other Roman Catholic Church ministers cannot bless same-sex unions and that such blessings are "not licit" if carried out. The ruling was a response to practices in some countries, such as the United States and Germany, where parishes and ministers have begun blessing same-sex unions in lieu of marriage, and calls for bishops to defacto institutionalise these. In response to formal questions from a number of dioceses on whether this practice was allowed, the Vatican's doctrinal office, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF), issued the ruling: "Negative". Pope Francis approved the response, the CDF said, adding that it was "not intended to be a form of unjust discrimination, but rather a reminder of the truth of the liturgical rite". It said such blessings were not permissible even though they were "motivated by a sincere desire to welcome and accompany homosexual persons" and help them grow in the faith. The Roman Catholic Church has 1.3 billion members. The CDF note said that since marriage between a man and a woman was a sacrament and blessings are related to the sacrament of marriage, they could not be extended to same-sex couples. "For this reason, it is not licit to impart a blessing on relationships, or partnerships, even stable, that involve sexual activity outside of marriage (i.e., outside the indissoluble union of a man and a woman open in itself to the transmission of life), as is the case of the unions between persons of the same sex," it said. At least two German bishops, including Cardinal Reinhard Marx of Munich, who is one of the pope's top advisors, have expressed support for some kind of "pastoral" blessing for same-sex unions. But the CDF note approved by the pope ruled this out. "The presence in such relationships of positive elements, which are in themselves to be valued and appreciated, cannot justify these relationships and render them legitimate objects of an ecclesial blessing, since the positive elements exist within the context of a union not ordered to the Creator’s plan," the note said. The Church teaches that gay tendencies are not sinful but gay acts are and that gay people must be treated with respect. Last year, the Vatican had to move to clarify comment attributed to Pope Francis on civil union laws in a documentary, saying they were taken out of context and did not signal a change in Church doctrine on gay people or support for same-sex marriage. The comments attributed to the pope in the film alarmed conservatives. Reporters later discovered that two separate quotes in response to separate questions were spliced to appear as one, deleting the intervening context and questions.

In setback for gay Catholics, Vatican says church cannot bless same-sex unions

Switzerland's parliament on Friday approved a bill Friday allowing same-sex couples to marry, finally bringing the small Alpine nation into line with much of Europe on gay rights.

Switzerland's parliament approves same-sex marriage

Taiwan's drag queens are fighting a dual battle one with the society to accept them & another with their communities to take up traditional responsibilities. Watch the report to know more.

Taiwan: Drag queens win legal battle, face societal resistance

Costa Rica has become the latest country to legalize same-sex marriage. Couples are holding private ceremonies due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch report.

Costa Rica legalizes same-sex marriage: Couples hold private ceremonies amid COVID-19 pandemic

Northern Ireland's first same-sex wedding took place on February 11 after the government lifted a ban on gay marriage in the province, marking legalisation of the practice throughout the United Kingdom.

Your Story: Northern Ireland's first same-sex marriage

ABVP’s National Organizing Secretary, Sunil Ambekar is perhaps the only serving Pracharak to have written a book on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rss-is-not-an-organisation-of-sanyasis-mohan-bhagwat-166223">Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh</a> (RSS) and its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/moderate-hinduism-mohan-bhagwats-vijayadashami-exposition-172756">challenges</a> while being in the job.&nbsp;

The book named ‘The RSS: Roadmaps for the 21st Century’ dwells on the issues of family, development, caste system, Hindutva&nbsp;and environment.

The book marks both commitments to certain values which RSS upholds and strong departures to showcase that it is open to change and absorb new realities of the society.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The book is an attempt to develop a cultural model which can keep pace with rapid urbanization and development of the society, but it does not get emotional on the virtues of the joint family.&nbsp;

The author of the book makes peace with the idea of a nuclear family with a hope that core Indian family values survive in the long run lest Indian society begins to replicate American experience.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
RSS had made it clear way before the Supreme Court judgement that it is opposed to the criminalisation of same-sex relationship. Today, the next step within the LGBT community is that of same-sex marriages.&nbsp;

When asked this question, Sunil Ambekar said,” We do not believe in institutionalising same-sex marriages, but it does not mean that we have closed doors on this chapter.”&nbsp;

It is a big step for an organization where a change in dress code (from traditional khaki shorts to trousers) led to decades of internal discussion and debates.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Sunil Ambekar also said that RSS believes that a live-in relationship is not advisable.&nbsp;

“RSS is not an organization which believes in making laws for the society through judicial interventions. We believe in consensus,” he said.

The book is an attempt to clarify views of RSS on issues which have remained central in Indian politics. Last year, RSS organized a three-day function in Delhi on which RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwat addressed several issues.&nbsp;

Despite over political focus on RSS, the organization continues to be focused on cultural issues of the society. Sunil Ambekar has been National Organising Secretary of ABVP from 2003. Through the book, he also highlights the internal working of the Sangh, its decision-making process, coordination system and means of expansion.

ABVP’s National Organizing Secretary, Sunil Ambekar is perhaps the only serving Pracharak to have written a book on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its challenges while being in the job.

ABVP’s National Organizing Secretary, Sunil Ambekar is perhaps the only serving Pracharak to have written a book on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its challenges while being in the job. The book named ‘The RSS: Roadmaps for the 21st Century’ dwells on the issues of family, development, caste system, Hindutva and environment. The book marks both commitments to certain values which RSS upholds and strong departures to showcase that it is open to change and absorb new realities of the society. The book is an attempt to develop a cultural model which can keep pace with rapid urbanization and development of the society, but it does not get emotional on the virtues of the joint family. The author of the book makes peace with the idea of a nuclear family with a hope that core Indian family values survive in the long run lest Indian society begins to replicate American experience. RSS had made it clear way before the Supreme Court judgement that it is opposed to the criminalisation of same-sex relationship. Today, the next step within the LGBT community is that of same-sex marriages. When asked this question, Sunil Ambekar said,” We do not believe in institutionalising same-sex marriages, but it does not mean that we have closed doors on this chapter.” It is a big step for an organization where a change in dress code (from traditional khaki shorts to trousers) led to decades of internal discussion and debates. Sunil Ambekar also said that RSS believes that a live-in relationship is not advisable. “RSS is not an organization which believes in making laws for the society through judicial interventions. We believe in consensus,” he said. The book is an attempt to clarify views of RSS on issues which have remained central in Indian politics. Last year, RSS organized a three-day function in Delhi on which RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwat addressed several issues. Despite over political focus on RSS, the organization continues to be focused on cultural issues of the society. Sunil Ambekar has been National Organising Secretary of ABVP from 2003. Through the book, he also highlights the internal working of the Sangh, its decision-making process, coordination system and means of expansion.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh not completely closed to idea of same-sex marriages: Sunil Ambekar

A referendum to change Romania's constitution to prevent same-sex couples from securing the right to marry failed to draw enough voters to validate the result on Sunday, after a campaign that led to a rise in hate speech against the gay community.

The vote has also been seen as popularity test of the ruling Social Democrat Party (PSD) that supported the change and whose attempts to weaken anti-corruption legislation have drawn criticism from the European Union's executive.

Data from the national election bureau showed voter turnout stood at 20.4 per cent when the polls closed at 1800 GMT, below the 30 per cent required for it to be valid.

The two-day referendum, which cost $40 million, aimed to change the constitution to define marriage as strictly between a man and a woman from the current gender-neutral "spouses."

Religiously conservative Romania, which decriminalised homosexuality in 2001 decades after neighbouring countries, bars marriage and civil partnerships for same sex couples.

Civil society group Coalition for the Family secured 3 million signatures to trigger the vote aimed at preventing gay couples winning the right to marry in the future.

The Coalition received backing from the Orthodox Church and other religions as well as all but one parliamentary parties.

"Romanians rejected being divided and hating each other, it is a victory for Romanian democracy and moreover, Romanians rejected the involvement of the Orthodox Church in the state’s secular affairs," said Vlad Viski of LGBT rights group MozaiQ.

"We believe politicians must now legalise civil partnerships for same-sex couples," he said at a party to celebrate the outcome.

Dozens of human rights groups had said a successful referendum would embolden further attempts to chip away at the rights of minority groups and push Romania onto a populist, authoritarian track.

They have encouraged people to boycott the ballot, with several companies and popular musicians and artists following. A library chain even offered a book discount over the weekend for those who wanted to stay in and read rather than vote.

In villages across the country, people were quoted saying they had better things to do, such as canning food and making wine.

"The PSD staked everything on the referendum, by associating with it and trying to capitalise on it," said Sergiu Miscoiu, a political science professor at Babes-Bolyai University.

"What remains is the fact that many citizens have associated the initiative with the PSD and that is why they boycotted it. Either way, it is a major sanction against the government."

Senior PSD member Codrin Stefanescu accused opposition parties and centrist President Klaus Iohannis of misinforming Romanians in the run-up to the vote.

PSD leader Liviu Dragnea, whose appeal against a criminal conviction in an abuse of office case starts on Monday, told reporters after voting "Yes" to the change on Saturday that Romanians had to decide the kind of country they wanted.

"We all know that for years we’ve been told others know what is best for us better than we do. I believe it is time we decide what kind of society and country we want to have and how we want to live in our country," Dragnea said.

Days before the vote, the government relaxed anti-fraud monitoring and limited options for challenging the result.

Romania ranks 25th out of 28 EU states based on legislation, hate speech and discrimination against LGBT people, an annual study by ILGA-Europe, an umbrella organisation advocating equality, showed.

A referendum to change Romania's constitution to prevent same-sex couples from securing the right to marry failed to draw enough voters to validate the result on Sunday, after a campaign that led to a rise in hate speech against the gay community.

A referendum to change Romania's constitution to prevent same-sex couples from securing the right to marry failed to draw enough voters to validate the result on Sunday, after a campaign that led to a rise in hate speech against the gay community. The vote has also been seen as popularity test of the ruling Social Democrat Party (PSD) that supported the change and whose attempts to weaken anti-corruption legislation have drawn criticism from the European Union's executive. Data from the national election bureau showed voter turnout stood at 20.4 per cent when the polls closed at 1800 GMT, below the 30 per cent required for it to be valid. The two-day referendum, which cost $40 million, aimed to change the constitution to define marriage as strictly between a man and a woman from the current gender-neutral "spouses." Religiously conservative Romania, which decriminalised homosexuality in 2001 decades after neighbouring countries, bars marriage and civil partnerships for same sex couples. Civil society group Coalition for the Family secured 3 million signatures to trigger the vote aimed at preventing gay couples winning the right to marry in the future. The Coalition received backing from the Orthodox Church and other religions as well as all but one parliamentary parties. "Romanians rejected being divided and hating each other, it is a victory for Romanian democracy and moreover, Romanians rejected the involvement of the Orthodox Church in the state’s secular affairs," said Vlad Viski of LGBT rights group MozaiQ. "We believe politicians must now legalise civil partnerships for same-sex couples," he said at a party to celebrate the outcome. Dozens of human rights groups had said a successful referendum would embolden further attempts to chip away at the rights of minority groups and push Romania onto a populist, authoritarian track. They have encouraged people to boycott the ballot, with several companies and popular musicians and artists following. A library chain even offered a book discount over the weekend for those who wanted to stay in and read rather than vote. In villages across the country, people were quoted saying they had better things to do, such as canning food and making wine. "The PSD staked everything on the referendum, by associating with it and trying to capitalise on it," said Sergiu Miscoiu, a political science professor at Babes-Bolyai University. "What remains is the fact that many citizens have associated the initiative with the PSD and that is why they boycotted it. Either way, it is a major sanction against the government." Senior PSD member Codrin Stefanescu accused opposition parties and centrist President Klaus Iohannis of misinforming Romanians in the run-up to the vote. PSD leader Liviu Dragnea, whose appeal against a criminal conviction in an abuse of office case starts on Monday, told reporters after voting "Yes" to the change on Saturday that Romanians had to decide the kind of country they wanted. "We all know that for years we’ve been told others know what is best for us better than we do. I believe it is time we decide what kind of society and country we want to have and how we want to live in our country," Dragnea said. Days before the vote, the government relaxed anti-fraud monitoring and limited options for challenging the result. Romania ranks 25th out of 28 EU states based on legislation, hate speech and discrimination against LGBT people, an annual study by ILGA-Europe, an umbrella organisation advocating equality, showed.

Romanian constitutional ban on same-sex marriage fails on low vote turnout

Lawmakers in conservative Argentina prepared to vote Wednesday on a decisive bill to legalize abortion which if passed, would make it the most populous Latin American country to do so.

The debate has divided Argentinian society. Though it became the first Latin American country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2010, it remains strongly influenced by the Catholic Church and by its native son, Pope Francis.

The session in the lower house Chamber of Deputies was expected to continue into the night before a vote is taken, likely in the early hours of Thursday.

Ahead of the session, 122 deputies in the 257-seat Chamber said they would vote against the bill, with 117 in favor. Around 30 undecided lawmakers were likely to determine the outcome.

Many lawmakers have said they would put their religious convictions aside to support the bill.

"Our function is to listen. It is not a personal decision, but it's about who we represent. Listening to different sectors of the province of Buenos Aires, I made the decision to vote in favor," said Fernando Espinoza of ex-president Cristina Kirchner's Citizen's Unity Party.

Espinoza spoke minutes after the session opened, as several previously undecided lawmakers indicated how they intended to vote, but it was as yet unclear how the shifting positions would affect the overall result.

As in most Latin American countries, abortion is currently illegal in Argentina, except in cases of rape or when the life or health of the woman is at risk.

Putting religion aside

The Church has campaigned fiercely against the new bill and the pope sent a letter to Argentine bishops calling on them to "defend life and justice."

The bill would decriminalize abortion during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, and beyond that in cases where the fetus suffers from conditions not compatible with life outside the womb.

If passed, it faces another hurdle at the Senate.

The leader of the pro-abortion rights bloc, Daniel Lipovetzky, told the Chamber there were valid "public health reasons" why they should adopt the bill.

"We had three health ministers, with distinct visions because they belonged to distinct governments, and in this they agreed: the legalization of abortion improved healthcare for Argentinian women," he said.

But Horacio Goicoechea, an MP with the pro-government Radical Civil Union, countered that "beyond good intentions, (the bill) subverts a biological, biomedical, legal and historical order of the nation."

According to official health ministry statistics, over 17 percent of the 245 recorded deaths of pregnant women and girls in 2016 were due to abortion. NGOs say some 500,000 clandestine abortions a year are carried out every year.

First debate

Argentina overcame strong Church opposition to legalize gay marriage eight years ago, but the issue of abortion has never before been discussed in parliament.

Center-right President Mauricio Macri made it clear from the outset he was "in favor of life" but nevertheless encouraged open debate in Congress.

Argentines are as divided over the issue in the streets as in Congress.

Noisy pro- and anti-abortion protests were being held outside Congress from early Wednesday, with protesters saying they would remain until the vote result was known.

"Since democracy we have been fighting for this right, but they systematically denied us," activist Vilma Ripo told AFP, referring to the end of military rule in 1983.

A few blocks away, anti-abortion campaigners waved signs that said: "Defend the two lives."

Meanwhile, high-school students have taken over several Buenos Aires schools to support the decriminalization of abortion.

Deaths due to abortion&nbsp

Human Rights Watch said the vote was a landmark opportunity to end a harmful policy.

Jose Miguel Vivanco, the group's Americas director, said Argentina could join "the global trend toward expanding legal grounds to allow abortion and affirming the rights and dignity of women and girls."

In Latin America, unrestricted abortion is legal in Uruguay, Cuba and Mexico City. In almost all countries, it is available in case of a risk to a woman's life or in cases of rape. However, a blanket prohibition exists in the Central American states of El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua.

Argentina became the first Latin American country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2010, it remains strongly influenced by the Catholic Church and by its native son, Pope Francis

Lawmakers in conservative Argentina prepared to vote Wednesday on a decisive bill to legalize abortion which if passed, would make it the most populous Latin American country to do so. The debate has divided Argentinian society. Though it became the first Latin American country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2010, it remains strongly influenced by the Catholic Church and by its native son, Pope Francis. The session in the lower house Chamber of Deputies was expected to continue into the night before a vote is taken, likely in the early hours of Thursday. Ahead of the session, 122 deputies in the 257-seat Chamber said they would vote against the bill, with 117 in favor. Around 30 undecided lawmakers were likely to determine the outcome. Many lawmakers have said they would put their religious convictions aside to support the bill. "Our function is to listen. It is not a personal decision, but it's about who we represent. Listening to different sectors of the province of Buenos Aires, I made the decision to vote in favor," said Fernando Espinoza of ex-president Cristina Kirchner's Citizen's Unity Party. Espinoza spoke minutes after the session opened, as several previously undecided lawmakers indicated how they intended to vote, but it was as yet unclear how the shifting positions would affect the overall result. As in most Latin American countries, abortion is currently illegal in Argentina, except in cases of rape or when the life or health of the woman is at risk. Putting religion aside The Church has campaigned fiercely against the new bill and the pope sent a letter to Argentine bishops calling on them to "defend life and justice." The bill would decriminalize abortion during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, and beyond that in cases where the fetus suffers from conditions not compatible with life outside the womb. If passed, it faces another hurdle at the Senate. The leader of the pro-abortion rights bloc, Daniel Lipovetzky, told the Chamber there were valid "public health reasons" why they should adopt the bill. "We had three health ministers, with distinct visions because they belonged to distinct governments, and in this they agreed: the legalization of abortion improved healthcare for Argentinian women," he said. But Horacio Goicoechea, an MP with the pro-government Radical Civil Union, countered that "beyond good intentions, (the bill) subverts a biological, biomedical, legal and historical order of the nation." According to official health ministry statistics, over 17 percent of the 245 recorded deaths of pregnant women and girls in 2016 were due to abortion. NGOs say some 500,000 clandestine abortions a year are carried out every year. First debate Argentina overcame strong Church opposition to legalize gay marriage eight years ago, but the issue of abortion has never before been discussed in parliament. Center-right President Mauricio Macri made it clear from the outset he was "in favor of life" but nevertheless encouraged open debate in Congress. Argentines are as divided over the issue in the streets as in Congress. Noisy pro- and anti-abortion protests were being held outside Congress from early Wednesday, with protesters saying they would remain until the vote result was known. "Since democracy we have been fighting for this right, but they systematically denied us," activist Vilma Ripo told AFP, referring to the end of military rule in 1983. A few blocks away, anti-abortion campaigners waved signs that said: "Defend the two lives." Meanwhile, high-school students have taken over several Buenos Aires schools to support the decriminalization of abortion. Deaths due to abortion Human Rights Watch said the vote was a landmark opportunity to end a harmful policy. Jose Miguel Vivanco, the group's Americas director, said Argentina could join "the global trend toward expanding legal grounds to allow abortion and affirming the rights and dignity of women and girls." In Latin America, unrestricted abortion is legal in Uruguay, Cuba and Mexico City. In almost all countries, it is available in case of a risk to a woman's life or in cases of rape. However, a blanket prohibition exists in the Central American states of El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua.

Argentine Congress prepares for historic abortion vote

Two Irish men married each other in Ireland&nbsp;to avoid paying their inheritance taxes on a property.

The house was left by Matt Murphy, 83 who wanted his career Michael O&#39;Sullivan and his best friend to have that house after he dies.

The heterosexual men decided to tie the knot after learning that they would have to pay &euro;50,000 inheritance tax on a house.&nbsp;

News reports quoted O&#39;Sullivan saying that Murphy could not afford to pay O&#39;Sullivan as a carer, thereby &quot;he was to leave me the house,&quot; said O&#39;Sullivan.

He added, &quot;He said he would give me the house so I have somewhere to live when he goes.&quot;

However, due to the huge tax bill, the house would have to be sold.

The suggestion of them getting married came from a friend&nbsp;of Murphy, who suggested him jokingly that they should get married.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&quot;Then one night he turned around and said it to me and I said I would marry him,&quot; he also added.

It is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aninews.in/search?query=Murphy">Murphy</a>&#39;s first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aninews.in/search?query=marriage">marriage</a>, whereas&nbsp;for O&#39;Sullivan it is his second marriage.&nbsp;He was married to a woman before.

Same-sex marriage has been legal in Ireland since 2015.

The marriage took place after finding that they would have to pay ?50,000 inheritance tax on a house

Two Irish men married each other in Ireland to avoid paying their inheritance taxes on a property. The house was left by Matt Murphy, 83 who wanted his career Michael O'Sullivan and his best friend to have that house after he dies. The heterosexual men decided to tie the knot after learning that they would have to pay €50,000 inheritance tax on a house. News reports quoted O'Sullivan saying that Murphy could not afford to pay O'Sullivan as a carer, thereby "he was to leave me the house," said O'Sullivan. He added, "He said he would give me the house so I have somewhere to live when he goes." However, due to the huge tax bill, the house would have to be sold. The suggestion of them getting married came from a friend of Murphy, who suggested him jokingly that they should get married. "Then one night he turned around and said it to me and I said I would marry him," he also added. It is Murphy's first marriage, whereas for O'Sullivan it is his second marriage. He was married to a woman before. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Ireland since 2015.

Two straight Irish men marry to avoid inheritance tax