05-07-2025
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong will benefit from recognising the rights of same-sex couples
The landmark ruling by Hong Kong's top court requiring the government to recognise same-sex relationships was a defining moment for the city. Grounded in law, but also basic human decency, the court gave officials two years to put in place a framework protecting the core rights of such couples, who are not permitted to marry in the city.
The government unveiled its proposals last week, just four months ahead of the deadline and no one is happy with them.
Members of the LGBTQ community are disappointed because they do not go far enough.
Lawmakers are also angry. They hit out at the government for leaving insufficient time for the legislative process and failing to launch a public consultation. Some claimed the proposals would undermine Hong Kong's traditional family values.
There is a need for calm and clarity. Some legislators appear to want to roll back the ruling because they disagree with it. But the judgment must be implemented. That should be non-negotiable. Otherwise, there will be a continuing breach of the law.
Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang Kwok-wai was spot on when he said: 'A decision of the Court of Final Appeal, whether you like it or not or agree with it or not, is part of our judicial system,' adding that it must be respected.
The legislators are on firmer ground when they complain about the late submission of the proposals and lack of public consultation.
