The article discusses the efforts of Ukrainian activists to introduce civil partnerships for LGBTQ+ couples, providing them with equal rights and protection. The bill was initially blocked by a conservative committee, but activists are pushing for its adoption amid an increase in violations of LGBTQ+ rights.
The article highlights the importance of this initiative, as it would allow same-sex couples to have mutual rights and obligations, such as property ownership, inheritance, social protection, and rights in case of death or disappearance. It also notes that approval of civil partnerships could be a way for Ukraine to resist Russia’s crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights.
The article mentions the attitude of Ukrainians towards granting LGBTQ+ equal rights has been improving since Russia launched its full-scale war in 2022, with over 70% supporting equal rights for LGBTQ+, according to polls. However, human rights activists report an increase in violations of LGBTQ+ rights this year, including physical violence, online harassment, and hate speech.
The article also mentions that allowing civil partnerships would provide the LGBTQ+ community with a choice of values, as it would allow them to choose between marriage and civil partnership, similar to heterosexual couples. It notes that same-sex couples would have mutual rights and obligations when it comes to property ownership, inheritance, social protection, and rights in case of death or disappearance.
Overall, the article emphasizes the importance of introducing civil partnerships for LGBTQ+ couples, providing them with equal rights and protection, and highlighting Ukraine’s commitment to European values and human rights.