In Estonia, the law on the recognition of same-sex marriages came into force

In Estonia, the law on the equality of marriages entered into force. From January 1, marriage can be concluded by two adults, regardless of gender. Thus, Estonia became the first post-Soviet country to recognize same-sex marriages.

The Estonian Parliament adopted a decision on marriage equality last June. Out of 101 deputies, 55 voted for, 34 against, the rest abstained or did not participate in the voting.

Since 2013, Estonia has provided its citizens, regardless of gender, with the opportunity to enter into an official partnership agreement. Such an agreement allows partners to make official decisions for each other – for example, in medical cases – to dispose of jointly acquired property, inherit or receive state benefits on an equal basis with married couples. The Law on Marriage Equality does not cancel the possibility to enter into a partnership. Couples who previously concluded such an agreement, but who wish to formalize a full-fledged marriage, will now be able to do so in a simplified manner.

The Minister of Social Protection of Estonia, Signe Ryysalo, said that the marriage equality law should put an end to many years of legal confusion and ensure equal rights for all residents of the country. “I hope that unfounded fears will disappear, and critics of this decision will understand that it does not take anything away from anyone, but gives many of us important rights,” she said.