Estonia has made history by becoming the first central European nation and the first ex-Soviet country to legalize same-sex marriage. On Tuesday, amendments to its Family Law Act were approved, allowing marriages between any two people, regardless of their sex, starting from January 1, 2024.
The amendments also have significant implications for same-sex couples who wish to adopt children, as unmarried couples in Estonia were previously unable to adopt.
“This decision not only benefits many people, but also demonstrates our society’s compassion and respect for one another. I am proud of Estonia,” stated Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas in a press release.
A recent survey by the Estonian Human Rights Centre revealed that 53% of Estonians support marriage equality, further highlighting the positive response within the country.
Estonia now joins the ranks of 30 other countries that have legalized gay marriage, according to the Pew Research Center. Andorra, a small European country situated between France and Spain, also legalized same-sex marriage earlier this year.
Kallas emphasized the importance of granting individuals the right to marry the person they love and commit to, placing Estonia in line with other Nordic countries and democratic nations that have already embraced marriage equality.
Prior to this legislation, same-sex relationships in Estonia were recognized through the Registered Partnership Act, which granted individuals certain rights in decision-making, health matters, and asset management. With the new amendments, those in registered partnerships will now have the opportunity to convert their status to marriage through a simplified process.
Signe Riisalo, Estonia’s Minister of Social Protection, acknowledged the significance of these changes and emphasized the necessity of ensuring equal rights for all. The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, also celebrated Estonia’s progressive legislation and expressed solidarity with LGBTQI+ communities worldwide.
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