Statement on the Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill

“The Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill represents a small but important step forward in acknowledging same-sex relationships in Hong Kong. However, it falls far short of providing full recognition and protection. 

“To begin with, the government limits its proposed new registration system to those who have married or entered into partnerships abroad. This does nothing for couples who are unable to have their relationships registered overseas. 

“Hong Kong already has a registration system – it’s called marriage. Excluding same-sex couples from marriage perpetuates unfairness without justification. Marriage remains the simplest and most universally understood institution to recognize committed relationships. 

“The experience of nearly 40 jurisdictions that have embraced equal marriage makes one thing clear: including same-sex couples in marriage neither harms individuals nor weakens the institution. On the contrary, it strengthens families and societies.

“Ending exclusion is the most effective way to foster social harmony and avoid protracted debates and further litigation. A recent survey shows that 60% of Hong Kong people support equal marriage because they understand it is the right answer for families, the economy and our shared society. 

“Today the government has taken a step forward, and our society is ready to move forward. The time has come for stakeholders to work together so that all couples are treated fairly and equally under the law.”