What is same-sex marriage, and what is its global legal status as of 2025?

Same-sex marriage, also referred to as gay marriage or same-gender marriage, is the marriage between two individuals of the same legal sex or gender. As of 2025, it is legally performed and recognized in 38 countries, encompassing a global population of 1.5 billion people, which represents 20% of the world's population. The most recent country to enact legislation for same-sex marriage is Thailand.

In which types of countries is same-sex marriage most commonly legalized?

Same-sex marriage is legally recognized in a large majority of the world's developed countries. However, there are notable exceptions, including Italy, Japan, South Korea, and the Czech Republic, which have not yet legalized it nationwide.

What are the implications of same-sex marriage legalization regarding adoption rights?

The legalization of same-sex marriage does not automatically guarantee adoption rights for same-sex couples in all jurisdictions. While most countries that permit same-sex marriage also allow these couples to jointly adopt children similarly to heterosexual married couples, this is not universally the case.

Which countries restrict advocacy for same-sex marriage, and what is the constitutional landscape regarding marriage definition?

Countries such as Nigeria and Russia have laws that restrict advocacy for same-sex marriage. Furthermore, approximately 35 countries, as of 2023, have constitutional provisions that define marriage exclusively as between a man and a woman, often enacted recently as a preventative measure. Additionally, some countries with constitutionally mandated Islamic law generally interpret it as prohibiting same-sex marriage, and in several of these nations, homosexuality itself is criminalized.

What historical evidence exists for same-sex unions being recognized as marriage?

Historical records indicate the existence of marriage between same-sex couples dating back to the first century CE. For instance, the Sifra, written in the 3rd century CE, references same-sex marriages in the context of interpreting Levitical prohibitions, suggesting that a man marrying a man or a woman marrying two men were considered among the prohibited acts. Additionally, ancient Roman sources mention emperors like Nero and Elagabalus celebrating same-sex unions, although Roman law did not officially recognize these as marriages.

Who were the first same-sex couple to obtain a legally recognized marriage in modern history, and when did this occur?

Michael McConnell and Jack Baker are recognized as the first same-sex couple in modern recorded history to obtain a marriage license, have their marriage solemnized, and achieve legal recognition from a government. This event took place on September 3, 1971, in Minnesota.

Which country was the first to legalize same-sex marriage, and when did this take effect?

The Netherlands was the first country to pass a law providing for marriage equality between same-sex and opposite-sex couples. This law was enacted in 2000 and officially took effect on April 1, 2001.

Who are the main proponents and opponents of same-sex marriage, and what is the general trend in public opinion?

Major medical and scientific communities, human rights and civil rights organizations, and some progressive religious groups are prominent supporters of same-sex marriage. Conversely, opponents are often conservative religious groups, some of which may support civil unions. Public opinion polls consistently show a continuous rise in support for the recognition of same-sex marriage across developed democracies and many developing countries.

What are the documented benefits of same-sex marriage for individuals and children, according to scientific studies?

Scientific studies indicate that same-sex marriage enhances the financial, psychological, and physical well-being of gay individuals, and that children raised by married same-sex couples benefit from legal recognition and societal support. These studies also suggest that legalizing same-sex marriage does not harm heterosexual marriages and that excluding same-sex couples from marriage stigmatizes them and invites discrimination. Furthermore, research refutes the notion that civilization or social orders depend on restricting marriage to heterosexuals.

What alternative terms have been used by proponents of same-sex marriage, and why?

Proponents have used terms like 'marriage equality' and 'equal marriage' to emphasize their goal of achieving recognition for same-sex marriage on the same footing as opposite-sex marriage. Organizations like Marriage Equality USA and Freedom to Marry have utilized these terms. The Associated Press recommends 'same-sex marriage' over 'gay marriage' to avoid erasing bisexual individuals who may be in same-sex marriages. There has also been a shift towards 'same-gender relationship' and 'same-gender marriage' to be more inclusive and avoid erasing transgender or bisexual identities.

How have major English dictionaries adapted their definitions of 'marriage' in response to the legalization of same-sex marriage?

In response to the legal recognition of same-sex couples in numerous countries during the 21st century, major English dictionaries have updated their definitions of marriage. These updates typically involve either removing gender specifications or adding secondary definitions that explicitly include gender-neutral language or same-sex unions. The Oxford English Dictionary, for example, has recognized same-sex marriage in its definitions since the year 2000.

What does the term 'traditional marriage' signify for opponents of same-sex marriage?

Opponents of same-sex marriage, including religious organizations like The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Catholic Church, and the Southern Baptist Convention, use the term 'traditional marriage' to specifically refer to marriage exclusively between a man and a woman.

What does the Sifra text reveal about ancient views on same-sex marriage?

The Sifra, a Jewish text from the 3rd century CE, clarifies prohibitions mentioned in the Book of Leviticus by including same-sex marriage as an example of prohibited acts. It states that 'A man would marry a man and a woman a woman, a man would marry a woman and her daughter, and a woman would be married to two men,' indicating that such unions were recognized, albeit negatively, in that context.

What historical accounts exist regarding same-sex unions in the Roman Empire?

In the early Roman Empire, some male couples are believed to have celebrated marriage rites in the presence of friends, as reported by ancient sources, though often with a mocking tone. Emperors Nero and Elagabalus are specifically mentioned as having engaged in same-sex weddings, with Elagabalus reportedly marrying a male partner and influencing other men at court to do the same. While Roman law did not recognize male marriages, there were concerns about expectations for official registration.

What was the nature of male marriages described by Li Yu and Shen Defu in 17th-century China?

In 17th-century China, the writer Li Yu and scholar-bureaucrat Shen Defu documented a system of male marriages in the Fujian region. In these unions, the older man assumed a 'qixiong' (adoptive older brother) role and paid a 'bride price' for the younger man, who became the 'qidi' (adoptive younger brother). Li Yu described the ceremony as mimicking proper marriage rituals, including the 'three cups of tea' and 'six wedding rituals'.

What was the significance of Denmark's 1989 registered partnerships for same-sex couples?

In 1989, Denmark became the first country to legally recognize relationships for same-sex couples through registered partnerships. These partnerships granted same-sex couples most of the rights afforded to married heterosexual couples, with the notable exceptions of the right to adopt children or obtain joint custody.

Which countries have legalized same-sex marriage, and what is the approximate number as of 2025?

As of 2025, same-sex marriage is legally performed and recognized in 38 countries worldwide. This includes nations across the Americas, Western Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia, although its spread has been uneven across different regions.

What was the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in the *Schalk and Kopf v. Austria* case regarding same-sex marriage?

In the 2010 case of *Schalk and Kopf v. Austria*, the ECHR ruled that denying a same-sex couple the right to marry did not violate their human rights. The court stated that Article 12 of the European Convention on Human Rights, concerning the right to marry, was intended for heterosexual couples due to its use of 'men and women,' but acknowledged that same-sex unions are protected under Articles 8 (right to private and family life) and 14 (prohibition of discrimination).

What did the European Court of Justice rule regarding same-sex couples' residency rights in the *Coman* case?

In a 2018 ruling concerning a case from Romania, the European Court of Justice determined that married same-sex couples should have the same residency rights as other married couples within EU countries, even if that specific country does not permit or recognize same-sex marriage. However, Romania did not implement this ruling, leading the European Parliament to later call for its enforcement across the EU.

What was the advisory opinion of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) regarding same-sex marriage in 2018?

In 2018, the IACHR issued an advisory opinion stating that states party to the American Convention on Human Rights should grant same-sex couples access to all existing domestic legal frameworks for family registration, including marriage, along with all associated rights. The Court also recommended that governments implement temporary decrees recognizing same-sex marriage until new legislation is passed and deemed separate provisions like civil unions inadmissible if they were discriminatory alternatives to marriage.

What is the general trend in public opinion regarding same-sex marriage globally?

Public opinion polls conducted in numerous countries reveal a consistent trend of increasing support for same-sex marriage. This rise in support is often attributed to generational differences, with younger generations showing significantly higher approval rates. Support has grown across various demographics, including age, political ideology, religion, gender, race, and geographic regions, particularly in developed nations.

What are the key findings regarding the health and well-being impacts of same-sex marriage legalization?

Studies indicate that legalizing same-sex marriage has correlated with improved health outcomes, including increased health insurance coverage, better sexual health among men who have sex with men, and reductions in psychiatric disorders and suicide rates within the LGBTQ+ population. While evidence on mental health effects is mixed, the overall findings suggest positive impacts on the well-being of individuals in same-sex relationships and their children.

How does the legalization of same-sex marriage affect adoption rights for same-sex couples?

In most jurisdictions that permit same-sex marriage, these couples are also allowed to jointly adopt children under the same conditions as heterosexual married couples. However, there are exceptions, such as Ecuador and some states in Mexico, where this right is not fully recognized, although legal challenges have occurred in Mexico. Conversely, some countries that do not recognize same-sex marriage still permit joint adoption by same-sex couples.

What are the potential legal complications for transgender and intersex individuals regarding same-sex marriage?

The legal status of same-sex marriage can create complications for transgender and intersex individuals depending on how a jurisdiction defines sex in its marriage laws. Some laws may prohibit transgender individuals from marrying partners of the 'opposite' sex based on their legal sex marker, while others allow marriage regardless of gender identity if the jurisdiction recognizes legal gender changes. The process of obtaining a legal gender recognition certificate can sometimes require individuals to dissolve existing civil partnerships or marriages, though some countries have found such requirements unconstitutional.

What was the situation regarding divorce for same-sex married couples in the United States before the *Obergefell v. Hodges* decision?

Prior to the landmark Supreme Court case *Obergefell v. Hodges*, same-sex married couples in the United States could typically only obtain a divorce in jurisdictions that legally recognized their marriages, with some exceptions to this rule.

What are the two main opposing viewpoints on how same-sex marriage should be legally established in democratic societies?

One viewpoint, often termed 'majority rules,' posits that the validity or legality of same-sex marriage should be determined by a simple majority vote of the populace or their elected representatives. In contrast, a 'civil rights' perspective argues that same-sex marriage is valid when an impartial judiciary examines the issue and determines that the right to marry, irrespective of the partners' gender, is guaranteed under the jurisdiction's civil rights laws.

What is the significance of the 'traditional marriage' terminology used by opponents of same-sex marriage?

Opponents of same-sex marriage, particularly conservative religious groups, use the term 'traditional marriage' to denote marriage exclusively between a man and a woman. This terminology serves to frame their position as upholding a long-standing, established norm.

What did the American Anthropological Association state in 2004 regarding marriage and societal order?

In 2004, the American Anthropological Association issued a statement asserting that over a century of anthropological research provides no evidence supporting the view that civilization or stable social orders depend on marriage being exclusively heterosexual. The association concluded that diverse family types, including those based on same-sex partnerships, can contribute to humane societies.

What is the general trend in public opinion regarding same-sex marriage among younger generations?

Public opinion polls consistently show that support for same-sex marriage is significantly higher among younger generations compared to older ones. This generational difference is a notable factor in the overall increasing trend of support for same-sex marriage globally.

Which country was the first to offer legal recognition to relationships for same-sex couples, and what rights did it grant?

Denmark was the first country to legally recognize relationships for same-sex couples in 1989 by establishing registered partnerships. These partnerships provided same-sex couples with most rights equivalent to married heterosexuals, excluding the rights to adopt or obtain joint custody of a child.

What is the status of same-sex marriage in Taiwan and Thailand?

Taiwan legalized same-sex marriage on May 24, 2019, becoming the first place in Asia to do so. Thailand legalized same-sex marriage on June 18, 2024, making it the most recent jurisdiction to enact such legislation.

What is the difference between 'marriage equality' and 'gay marriage' terminology?

'Marriage equality' and 'equal marriage' are terms used by proponents to emphasize the goal of achieving legal recognition for same-sex marriage on the same terms as opposite-sex marriage, highlighting the principle of equal rights. 'Gay marriage' is sometimes criticized for potentially excluding bisexual individuals or others in same-sex unions who do not identify as gay.

What is the significance of the *Coman and Others v. General Inspectorate for Immigration and Ministry of the Interior* ruling by the European Court of Justice?

The European Court of Justice ruled in this case that same-sex married couples must be granted the same residency rights as heterosexual married couples within EU countries, even if the specific country does not recognize same-sex marriage. This ruling aimed to ensure consistent rights for EU citizens' non-EU spouses, regardless of sexual orientation.

What did the Inter-American Court of Human Rights rule regarding same-sex couples' rights to family registration?

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruled in 2018 that states party to the American Convention on Human Rights should provide same-sex couples access to all existing legal frameworks for family registration, including marriage, and all rights derived from it. The court also stated that creating separate legal provisions like civil unions instead of marriage was discriminatory.

What are the documented health benefits associated with the legalization of same-sex marriage?

Studies have linked the legalization of same-sex marriage to positive health outcomes, including increased health insurance coverage for individuals in same-sex couples, improvements in sexual health among men who have sex with men, and reductions in psychiatric disorders and suicide rates within the LGBTQ+ population. These benefits suggest that legal recognition and societal acceptance contribute to better overall health.

What is the stance of major scientific and medical organizations on same-sex marriage?

Major scientific and medical organizations, such as the American Psychological Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, support the legalization of same-sex marriage. They cite research indicating that parental sexual orientation does not affect a child's well-being and that legal recognition through marriage benefits same-sex couples and their children.

How has the definition of 'marriage' evolved in major English dictionaries?

Major English dictionaries have updated their definitions of 'marriage' to be more inclusive, either by removing gender specifications or by adding explicit recognition of same-sex unions. This reflects the societal and legal changes surrounding the recognition of same-sex marriage.

What are the arguments against same-sex marriage based on religious teachings?

Arguments against same-sex marriage based on religious teachings often center on the belief that marriage is divinely ordained as exclusively between a man and a woman. Proponents of this view sometimes emphasize procreation as the primary natural goal of marriage.

What is the historical context of same-sex unions in ancient Rome?

In ancient Rome, while not officially recognized as legal marriages, accounts exist of male couples celebrating marriage rites. Emperors Nero and Elagabalus are noted for their same-sex weddings, indicating a degree of social acceptance or at least public acknowledgment, even as Roman law eventually began to prohibit such unions with the rise of Christianity.

What is the difference between a 'majority rules' position and a 'civil rights' position on same-sex marriage?

The 'majority rules' position holds that the legality of same-sex marriage should be determined by popular vote or legislative majority. In contrast, the 'civil rights' position asserts that marriage equality is a fundamental right that should be recognized through judicial review based on existing civil rights protections, ensuring equal treatment regardless of sexual orientation.

What is the trend in public opinion regarding same-sex marriage in developed democracies?

Public opinion polls consistently show a trend of increasing support for same-sex marriage in developed democracies. This growing acceptance is often observed across various demographics, including age, education level, and political affiliation.

What are the implications of the *Fedotova and Others v. Russia* ruling by the ECHR?

The ECHR ruling in *Fedotova and Others v. Russia* (2021) established that countries must provide some form of legal recognition for same-sex couples, although it did not mandate marriage itself. This ruling has influenced subsequent judgments concerning other member states, emphasizing the need for legal frameworks that acknowledge same-sex unions.

What is the significance of the 'one-drop rule' in the context of racial classification and its potential parallel in discussions about same-sex marriage?

The 'one-drop rule' historically referred to the classification of individuals with any known African ancestry as Black, regardless of their appearance. While not directly related to marriage, the concept highlights how societal rules can create rigid categories. In discussions about same-sex marriage, similar concerns about inclusivity arise, such as ensuring that terms like 'gay marriage' do not exclude bisexual individuals.

How has the term 'same-gender marriage' evolved in usage?

The term 'same-gender marriage' has gained traction as a more inclusive alternative to 'gay marriage.' This shift aims to avoid erasing the identities of bisexual individuals or transgender people who may enter into same-sex marriages, thereby reflecting a broader understanding of gender and sexual orientation.

What is the difference between same-sex marriage and civil unions or registered partnerships?

Civil unions, registered partnerships, and domestic partnerships are legal arrangements that offer varying degrees of benefits and protections similar to marriage, but they are distinct from marriage itself. While some countries offer these alternatives, proponents of same-sex marriage often advocate for full marriage equality, viewing civil unions as an inferior form of recognition that can perpetuate stigma.

What are the documented effects of same-sex marriage legalization on the uptake of marriage by same-sex couples?

Studies indicate that when same-sex marriage becomes legally available, individuals in same-sex couples do utilize this option, although generally at lower rates than different-sex couples. Importantly, there is no evidence suggesting that the legalization of same-sex marriage negatively impacts the rates or nature of marriages among different-sex couples.

What role do international courts play in the recognition of same-sex marriage?

International courts, such as the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR), play a significant role by issuing rulings and advisory opinions that influence national legal frameworks. These decisions often address issues of non-discrimination, the right to private and family life, and the necessity of legal recognition for same-sex couples, thereby shaping the global landscape of same-sex marriage rights.

What is the significance of the 'traditional marriage' framing used by opponents of same-sex marriage?

The term 'traditional marriage' is employed by opponents of same-sex marriage to define marriage exclusively as a union between a man and a woman. This framing is often rooted in religious or cultural beliefs and serves to distinguish their view from the concept of marriage equality.

How do generational differences influence public opinion on same-sex marriage?

Generational differences significantly impact public opinion on same-sex marriage, with younger generations consistently showing higher levels of support compared to older generations. This trend is observed across numerous countries and is a key factor driving the overall increase in acceptance.

Same-sex Marriage Wiki: The Fabric of Union: Understanding Same-Sex Marriage Globally

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Defining Same-Sex Marriage

Legal Recognition

Same-sex marriage is the legal union between two individuals of the same sex or gender. As of early 2025, it is officially recognized and performed in 38 countries, encompassing approximately 1.5 billion people, which represents 20% of the global population. Thailand is the most recent nation to enact legislation for same-sex marriage.

Global Prevalence

The majority of developed nations have legalized same-sex marriage. Notable exceptions among developed countries include Italy, Japan, South Korea, and the Czech Republic. While many countries permit same-sex marriage, the associated rights, such as adoption, are not universally guaranteed, although most jurisdictions that allow same-sex marriage also permit joint adoption by such couples.

Historical Context

Evidence suggests that same-sex unions, including practices akin to marriage, have existed since antiquity, with references found as early as the first century CE. In modern recorded history, Michael McConnell and Jack Baker were the first same-sex couple to obtain a marriage license and have their marriage legally recognized in Minnesota in 1971. The Netherlands pioneered modern legal recognition, enacting marriage equality in 2001.

Terminology and Nuance

Evolving Language

Proponents often use terms like "marriage equality" and "equal marriage" to emphasize the goal of recognizing same-sex unions on par with opposite-sex marriages. The Associated Press recommends "same-sex marriage" over "gay marriage" to avoid erasing bisexual individuals or those whose identity may not align with the term "gay." The shift towards "same-gender marriage" further broadens inclusivity, acknowledging the spectrum of gender identities and preventing erasure within the LGBTQ+ community.

Defining Marriage

Defining marriage universally has been a complex anthropological endeavor. Historically, many definitions failed to account for same-sex unions present in various cultures. In the 21st century, as more countries enacted marriage equality, major dictionaries updated their definitions to include gender-neutral language or explicit recognition of same-sex unions, reflecting societal and legal changes.

Traditional vs. Equal Marriage

Opponents of same-sex marriage, often citing religious doctrines, frequently use the term "traditional marriage" to refer exclusively to unions between a man and a woman. This perspective often emphasizes procreation as the primary purpose of marriage. In contrast, advocates for marriage equality highlight the importance of committed relationships, legal protections, and equal rights for all couples.

Historical Perspectives

Ancient Roots

References to same-sex unions resembling marriage can be found in ancient texts. The Sifra, dating to the 3rd century CE, interprets Levitical prohibitions to include same-sex marriages. Ancient Roman sources mention male couples celebrating marriage rites, though often with mockery, and emperors like Nero and Elagabalus are reported to have engaged in same-sex unions. Roman law did not formally recognize these unions, and legal prohibitions emerged as the empire Christianized.

East Asian Practices

In 17th century China, writer Li Yu documented a system of male marriages in the Fujian region. In these unions, an older man would pay a bride price for a younger man, entering into a formal ceremony that mirrored heterosexual marriage rituals, with the younger partner adopting the role of an "adoptive younger brother."

Modern Movement

The modern movement advocating for same-sex marriage gained momentum in the late 20th century. The HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1980s heightened awareness of the legal vulnerabilities of same-sex relationships. Andrew Sullivan's 1989 article in *The New Republic* is noted as an early prominent case for same-sex marriage in the United States.

Chronology of Recognition

Key Milestones

The legal landscape of same-sex marriage has evolved significantly, with countries adopting it through legislative changes, court rulings, and popular votes. Below is a chronological overview of sovereign states that have legalized same-sex marriage.

Year	Country/Territory
2001	Netherlands
2003	Belgium
2004	Massachusetts (US State), Yukon (Canada)
2005	Quebec (Canada), Manitoba (Canada), Nova Scotia (Canada), Saskatchewan (Canada), Newfoundland and Labrador (Canada), New Brunswick (Canada), Spain, Canada (Nationwide)
2006	South Africa
2008	California (US State, repealed), Connecticut (US State)
2009	Norway, Iowa (US State), Sweden, Coquille Indian Tribe (US), Vermont (US State)
2010	New Hampshire (US State), District of Columbia (US), Mexico City (Mexico), Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation (US), Portugal, Iceland, Argentina
2011	New York (US State), Suquamish Tribe (US), Alagoas (Brazil)
2012	Quintana Roo (Mexico), Denmark, Sergipe (Brazil), Santa Rita do Sapucaí, Minas Gerais (Brazil), Espírito Santo (Brazil), Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, Bahia (Brazil), Brazilian Federal District, Washington (US State), Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe (US), Piauí (Brazil), Maine (US State)
2013	Maryland (US State), São Paulo (Brazil), Ceará (Brazil), Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians (US), Paraná (Brazil), Mato Grosso do Sul (Brazil), Rondônia (Brazil), Santa Catarina (Brazil), Paraíba (Brazil), Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians (US), Brazil (Nationwide), France, Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel (US), California (US State), Delaware (US State), Minnesota (US State), Rhode Island (US State), Grand Portage Band of Chippewa (US), Uruguay, New Zealand, Dona Ana County, New Mexico (US), Santa Fe County, New Mexico (US), Bernalillo County, New Mexico (US), San Miguel County, New Mexico (US), Valencia County, New Mexico (US), Taos County, New Mexico (US), Los Alamos County, New Mexico (US), Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation (US), Grant County, New Mexico (US), Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes (US), New Jersey (US State), Blue Lake Rancheria (US), Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe (US), Hawaii (US State), New Mexico (US State), Utah (US State, repealed)
2014	Cook County, Illinois (US), England and Wales (UK), South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Oregon (US State), Pennsylvania (US State), Illinois (US State), Akrotiri and Dhekelia, British Indian Ocean Territory, Puyallup Tribe of Indians (US), Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (US), Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians (US), Coahuila (Mexico), Oklahoma (US State), Virginia (US State), Utah (US State), Indiana (US State), Wisconsin (US State), Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (US), Colorado (US State), West Virginia (US State), Missouri (US State), Missouri (US State), Jackson County, Missouri (US), Douglas County, Kansas (US), Sedgwick County, Kansas (US), Eastern Shoshone Tribe (US), Northern Arapaho Tribe (US), Montana (US State), Blackfeet Nation (US), South Carolina (US State), Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (US), Scotland (UK)
2015	Luxembourg, Miami-Dade County, Florida (US), Florida (US State), Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (US), Pitcairn Islands, Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians (US), Guam, Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin (US), Chihuahua (Mexico), United States (Nationwide), Northern Mariana Islands, Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians (US), United States Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro (Mexico), Hannahville Indian Community (US), White Mountain Apache Tribe (US)
2016	Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohican Indians (US), Greenland, Colombia, Tulalip Tribes of Washington (US), Jalisco (Mexico), Campeche (Mexico), Colima (Mexico), Michoacán (Mexico), Morelos (Mexico), Isle of Man, San Pedro Cholula, Puebla (Mexico), British Antarctic Territory, Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin (US), Cherokee Nation (US), Gibraltar
2017	Ascension Island, Amealco de Bonfil, Querétaro (Mexico), Cadereyta de Montes, Querétaro (Mexico), Ezequiel Montes, Querétaro (Mexico), Huimilpan, Querétaro (Mexico), Pedro Escobedo, Querétaro (Mexico), San Joaquín, Querétaro (Mexico), Tolimán, Querétaro (Mexico), Finland, Osage Nation (US), Prairie Island Indian Community (US), Falkland Islands, Guernsey, Bermuda (repealed), Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin (US), Faroe Islands, Tristan da Cunha, Malta, Germany, Ak-Chin Indian Community (US), Baja California (Mexico)
2018	Austria, Australia, Malta, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha (Saint Helena), India, Taiwan, Ecuador, Sudan
2019	Costa Rica, United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland), Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey, Gibraltar, British Overseas Territories, British Antarctic Territory, British Indian Ocean Territory, Falkland Islands, Pitcairn Islands, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
2020	Botswana (High Court ruling, later overturned), South Sudan
2021	Switzerland, Chile, Cuba, Nicaragua, Barbados
2022	Slovenia, Mexico (nationwide), Andorra, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha (Saint Helena)
2023	Nepal, Greece, Estonia, Thailand
2024	Liechtenstein, San Marino
2025	(Projected/Pending: Several countries)

Global Legal Landscape

Geographic Distribution

Same-sex marriage is legal in 38 countries, predominantly in the Americas and Europe. However, its global adoption is uneven. Africa has only one country (South Africa), and Asia has two (Taiwan, Thailand). Many countries have constitutional definitions of marriage that exclude same-sex couples, and some nations with state-mandated Islamic law generally prohibit it. Homosexuality itself remains criminalized in 35 countries.

Legal Pathways

The legalization of same-sex marriage has occurred through various legal mechanisms: legislative amendments to existing marriage laws, judicial rulings based on constitutional guarantees of equality, interpretations that existing laws permit same-sex unions, and direct popular votes via referendums or initiatives.

Opposition and Restrictions

Some nations, like Nigeria and Russia, restrict advocacy for same-sex marriage. Opposition is frequently rooted in conservative religious interpretations that define marriage as exclusively between a man and a woman, often emphasizing procreation. Other arguments against recognition include claims that homosexuality is unnatural, that legalizing same-sex unions promotes homosexuality, and that children fare better with opposite-sex parents.

Public and Expert Consensus

Rising Support

Public opinion polls consistently indicate growing support for the recognition of same-sex marriage across developed democracies and an increasing number of developing countries. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards acceptance and equality.

Scientific & Social Science Findings

Major medical, scientific, and human rights organizations broadly support same-sex marriage. Research indicates that legal marriage enhances the financial, psychological, and physical well-being of same-sex couples. Studies also show that children raised by same-sex couples in legally recognized unions fare as well as those raised by opposite-sex couples. Furthermore, research refutes the notion that restricting marriage to heterosexuals is essential for civilization or social order, and demonstrates that exclusion stigmatizes and promotes discrimination against gay and lesbian individuals.

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References

Neither performed nor recognized in Niue, Tokelau, or the Cook Islands.

Registered foreign marriages confer all marriage rights in Israel. Domestic common-law marriages confer most rights of marriage. Domestic civil marriage recognized by some cities.

A "declaration of family relationship" is available in several of Cambodia's communes which may be useful in matters such as housing, but is not legally binding.

Guardianship agreements confer some limited legal benefits in China, including decisions about medical and personal care.

Hong Kong provides inheritance, guardianship rights, and residency rights for foreign spouses of legal residents.

Most Japanese cities and prefectures issue partnership certificates, but they are not legally binding.

Marriages conducted abroad between a Namibian national and a foreign spouse provide residency rights in Namibia.

Same-sex marriage is performed and recognized throughout Ecuador, but such couples are not considered married for purposes of adoption and may not adopt children.

Same-sex marriage is performed and recognized by law in metropolitan France and in all French overseas regions and possessions, which follow a single legal code.

Same-sex marriage is available in all jurisdictions, though the process is not everywhere as straightforward as it is for opposite-sex marriage and does not always include adoption rights.

Legally available in the Arizona municipalities of Bisbee, Clarkdale, Cottonwood, Jerome, Sedona and Tucson.

Because some polls do not report 'neither', those that do are listed with simple yes/no percentages in parentheses, so their figures can be compared.

Williams, CA., Roman Homosexuality: Second Edition, Oxford University Press, 2009, p. 280, p. 284.

Handbook of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Administration and Policy â Page 13, Wallace Swan â 2004

Williams, Roman Homosexuality, pp. 278â279, citing Dio Cassius and Aelius Lampridius.

Herek, Gregory M. "Legal recognition of same-sex relationships in the United States: A social science perspective." American Psychologist, Vol 61(6), September 2006, pp. 607â21.

For ease of comparison, only 'yes' and 'no' responses are counted. For old polling data, support figures have been adjusted upward @1%/year.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Same-sex marriage Wikipedia page

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The Fabric of Union

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Defining Same-Sex Marriage ⚖️

🤝 Legal Recognition

🌍 Global Prevalence

📜 Historical Context

Terminology and Nuance 🗣️

➡️ Evolving Language

📖 Defining Marriage

⛪ Traditional vs. Equal Marriage

Historical Perspectives ⏳

🏛️ Ancient Roots

🇨🇳 East Asian Practices

🇺🇸 Modern Movement

Chronology of Recognition 🗓️

🗺️ Key Milestones

Global Legal Landscape 🌐

📊 Geographic Distribution

⚖️ Legal Pathways

🚫 Opposition and Restrictions

Public and Expert Consensus 👍

📈 Rising Support

🧑‍🔬 Scientific & Social Science Findings

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Same-Sex Marriage

Legal Recognition

Global Prevalence

Historical Context

Terminology and Nuance

Evolving Language

Defining Marriage

Traditional vs. Equal Marriage

Historical Perspectives

Ancient Roots

East Asian Practices

Modern Movement

Chronology of Recognition

Key Milestones

Global Legal Landscape

Geographic Distribution

Legal Pathways

Opposition and Restrictions

Public and Expert Consensus

Rising Support

Scientific & Social Science Findings

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice