Skertsos on same-sex marriages: Equality of citizens before the law is a fundamental element

During the session of the Cabinet, Minister of State Akis Skertsos provided responses regarding the content of the draft law on same-sex marriage, as well as the spirit of the legislation. Skertsos, who is also the rapporteur of the draft law titled ‘Equality in civil marriage, amendment of the civil code, and other provisions,’ as well as the head of the National Strategic Plan for LGBTQIA , also addressed questions and objections raised in the public discourse, while presenting an overview of the international reality.

The draft law under consideration “introduces equality in civil marriage, meaning access to the institution of civil marriage for all Greek citizens without discrimination, regardless of sexual orientation. It protects the interests of children by regulating family law issues in same-sex families.” However, on the other hand, “we do not extend the right to medically assisted reproduction (including surrogacy) to male couples”, stated the minister of state.

“The equality of citizens before the law is a fundamental element of every liberal democracy.” In this context, “we deeply believe in the institution of marriage, one of the oldest and most conservative institutions. We want all Greek citizens to have access to it”, added Skertsos.

On the issue of adoption, Aris Skertsos informed members of the Cabinet that 39 countries worldwide allow adoption by same-sex couples, with 23 of them located in Europe. Furthermore, 16 member states of the European Union permit adoption by same-sex couples.

Citing a relevant survey conducted by Marc company, he concluded that “acceptance of equality in marriage is on the rise. Society supports the rights of children.” Moreover, based on international practice, “acceptance of equality in marriage increases after legislation. There has been no reversal in any country”, he added.