Statement on the Resumption of Second Reading of the Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill

“The Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill has reached a decisive moment. Hong Kong stands to benefit if lawmakers seize the opportunity on 10 September 2025 and vote in favour. 

“A 2023 survey found that 60% of the population supported equal marriage. This demonstrates that our city is ready to move forward with equal treatment of same-sex relationships. 

“By contrast, the nearly 11,000 submissions to the Bills Committee cannot be considered as a representative measure of public opinion, as they were based on non-random sampling. Of those submissions available for public view, about half of those opposing the bill relied on nine standardized forms and templates, indicating strong mobilization by specific groups rather than broad-based sentiment.

“Supportive submissions, on the other hand, offered heartfelt personal stories, lived experiences and evidence-based arguments. 

“International experience makes clear that extending equal treatment to same-sex relationships harms neither society nor marriage. On the contrary, societies are strengthened when dignity is respected and stigma removed.

“At its core, this is a matter of human dignity. The bill only seeks to fulfil the mandate of the Court of Final Appeal. “Lawmakers must base their decisions on facts and credible evidence, not personal faith or prejudice. Rejecting the bill would undermine Hong Kong’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity, while sending a wrong signal to the public and international community.”