Statement on the Rejection of the Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill

“Today is a disappointing day for Hong Kong. The rejection of the Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill sends a troubling signal to both local and international communities — that court rulings may be disregarded and the dignity of individuals overlooked. 

“We commend the government for taking initial steps towards fulfilling its constitutional obligation to implement the Court of Final Appeal’s decision on establishing a legal framework for the recognition of same-sex relationships.

“At the same time, we express our profound regret that lawmakers have chosen to ignore clear evidence and public sentiment. Multiple representative surveys have consistently shown that a majority of Hong Kong people support legal recognition of same-sex relationships.

“As the government itself has acknowledged, the constitutional obligation remains despite this legislative setback. We therefore urge the government to apply to the Court of Final Appeal for an extension of the deadline and to resume the legislative process at the earliest possible opportunity following the Legislative Council elections in December.”