Estonia legalizes same-sex marriages

Estonia has legalized same-sex marriages, according to information reported by CNN.

The Estonian parliament became the first post-Soviet country to legalize same-sex marriages on Wednesday evening. In a press statement, it is stated that after the parliament approved amendments to the Family Law in the country, two consenting adults can marry "regardless of their gender."

The amendments will come into effect on January 1, 2024. The amendments to the Family Law also allow same-sex couples to adopt children. In Estonia, only married couples can adopt, regardless of whether they are gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals.

"Everyone should have the right to marry the person they love and want," said Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. "With this decision, we finally join other Scandinavian countries and other democratic countries in ensuring marriage equality."

"This decision does not deprive anyone of anything but means a lot to many," she emphasized. "It also demonstrates our society's caring and respectful approach to each other. I am proud of Estonia."

A survey conducted by the Estonian Human Rights Center in April 2023 showed that 53% of Estonians believe in the "right of same-sex couples to marry."

This is the highest percentage in surveys conducted since 2012. At that time, 60% of respondents were against marriage equality.

"I am deeply grateful for the patience and understanding demonstrated by the LGBT+ community during these years," noted Signe Riisalo, Estonia's Minister of Social Protection.