Victory for equality in Spain

This makes Spain the third country in Europe and the world to provide full equality in terms of the matrimonial law regardless of sexual orientation. Same-sex partners will now be able to enjoy all the rights and responsibilities of civil marriage, and will be entitled to jointly apply for adoption.

ILGA-Europe is pleased with this significant development and would like to congratulate lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Spain, the Spanish politicians and the entire Spanish society for their courage, determination and ability to overcome prejudice and to deliver equality.

Patricia Prendiville, Executive Director of ILGA-Europe, said:

“We welcome the decision of the Spanish parliament and congratulate Spain on this important step. Spain proved that it is a modern and outward looking society and there is no reason or justification for discriminating against LGBT people. It has also proved that even strong Roman Catholic roots and heritage is not a barrier for building an inclusive and equal society. We believe the Spanish marriage victory will have a significant positive impact in other European countries where religious arguments are used to oppose the legal recognition for same-sex partners.”