An article on KKT Kumamoto Prefectural Television dated December 13, 2024 discusses the concerns of a male couple who entered into a same-sex marriage in Taiwan about living in Japan.
The number of countries around the world that recognize same-sex marriage has been steadily increasing in recent years, marking an important step toward achieving social equality. The legalization of same-sex marriage is spreading, especially in developed countries, as a way to guarantee LGBTQ+ rights and contribute to the elimination of discrimination. Below, we will introduce the main countries that have legalized same-sex marriage and the background behind it.
1.Netherlands
The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001. The Netherlands is a very progressive country regarding LGBTQ+ rights and has a long history of legalizing same-sex marriage. In 1998, civil solidarity contracts (same-sex partnerships) for same-sex couples were recognized, and after subsequent social debate, same-sex marriage was legalized in 2001. This legal reform marked an important turning point in accepting social diversity, and the Netherlands demonstrated its tolerance for LGBTQ+ to the world.
2.Belgium
Belgium legalized same-sex marriage in 2003, following the example of the Netherlands. Belgium has also taken proactive steps to ensure LGBTQ+ rights and has strengthened legal protections for same-sex couples. The legalization of same-sex marriage was the result of numerous civil movements and political support within the country. The legalization of same-sex marriage in Belgium marked an important step towards promoting social tolerance and equality, and has since influenced other countries in Europe.
3.Canada
Canada legalized same-sex marriage in 2005. Canada is characterized by a highly multicultural society, and legal protections for LGBTQ+ rights are well established. The legalization of same-sex marriage in Canada was triggered by a Supreme Court ruling, and was realized through public and political support. Canada not only recognizes same-sex marriage, but also guarantees various social security and legal rights to same-sex couples. Canada is widely recognized as one of the countries in the world that strongly protects LGBTQ+ rights.
4.United States
In the United States, the Supreme Court ruled in 2015 that same-sex marriage is legal in all states. Prior to this, same-sex marriage was legal in some states, including California and Massachusetts, but it took time for it to be legalized nationwide. However, with the 2015 ruling, same-sex marriage was recognized across the United States, and legal rights were guaranteed to same-sex couples. This ruling was a major victory for the LGBTQ+ movement in the United States and attracted attention around the world.
5.France
Same-sex marriage was legalized in France in 2013. France is a country with a long history, and in a society based on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, the debate over legalizing same-sex marriage became an important political issue. As social attitudes changed, the French government came to recognize same-sex marriage, and also granted same-sex couples the right to adopt children. This decision received strong support within France and also had an impact on the entire EU.
6.Germany
Same-sex marriage was legalized in Germany in 2017. Prior to that, same-sex couples were granted a civil partnership contract (“Eingetragene Lebenspartnerschaft”), but were not granted legal rights in the form of marriage. However, calls for legalization of same-sex marriage grew, and after a parliamentary debate, a decision was finally made to legalize same-sex marriage. The passage of this law marked an important step towards improving LGBTQ+ rights in German society.
7.South Africa
South Africa was the first country on the African continent to legalize same-sex marriage. The law legalizing same-sex marriage was passed in 2006, and South Africa is internationally recognized as a very LGBTQ+ positive country. This decision symbolized South Africa’s respect for human rights and inspired other countries on the African continent.
8.New Zealand
New Zealand legalized same-sex marriage in 2013. New Zealand is a country with a highly advanced social security system and has various legal procedures in place to protect LGBTQ+ rights. There is a growing understanding of homosexuals and a strong grassroots movement to legalize same-sex marriage. This has positioned New Zealand as one of the leading countries in the Asia-Pacific region that respects LGBTQ+ rights.
9.Switzerland
Switzerland legalized same-sex marriage in 2022. Although legal recognition of same-sex couples occurred relatively early in Switzerland, it took some time for same-sex marriage to be legalized. However, following a referendum held in 2021 in which the legalization of same-sex marriage was approved by a majority, the law came into effect in 2022. This move marks the progress of understanding and support for LGBTQ+ in Swiss society.
10.Costa Rica
Costa Rica legalized same-sex marriage in 2020. While many regions in Latin America are slow to legalize same-sex marriage, Costa Rica has made advanced legal arrangements and become a country that guarantees LGBTQ+ rights. This legalization has attracted a great deal of attention both at home and abroad, and is expected to have an impact on other Latin American countries.
Conclusion
Countries that have legalized same-sex marriage are playing an important role in protecting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community as countries that respect social equality and human rights. There have been many years of social and political debate and movements behind each country’s recognition of same-sex marriage. Legalizing same-sex marriage is not just about recognizing a form of marriage, but is also an important step towards improving the overall rights of LGBTQ+ people, and this trend is likely to continue to expand.
How same-sex couples can live in Japan
Under the current Japanese residence system, when two people of foreign nationality are married and are of the same sex, they can reside in Japan on a “Designated Activities”. (Residence status for same-sex partners, Tokyo Bar Association)