Andorra, a microstate in the Pyrenees between Spain and France, has recognized same-sex civil unions by law, but the opposition parties voted against because the law uses the word "civil union" instead "marriage", nevertheless recognizes the same rights.
The Andorra's LGTB groups think the same and announced they will continue fight to achieve a same-sex marriage law.
On 31 March 2014, the Social Democratic Party introduced a bill to legalize same-sex marriage, but the bill was rejected by the parliament. The objection of majority party Democrats for Andorra to using the word "marriage" was the reason for voting down that bill, and now it uses "civil union" instead. Same rights but different name, ridiculous.
Besides, this current law does not even replace the old 2005 stable union bill, so rights groups are up in arms saying it is crazy that the tiny country has two union laws and no marriage yet.
In any case, a new step for equal marriage in Europe, but waiting the definitive one.
Andorra, the small country of Pyrennes
Andorra is famous for its winter sports offering
and celebrates a gay ski week every year
Yay!!! And Benja, you are one of the few people reading this who has actually BEEN to Andorra!
ReplyDeleteYes Eddi you are right,,, I´ve been there several times
ReplyDeleteAnd it´s the only one state where Catalan is the official language.
By René W. La Fleur:
ReplyDeleteThis is wonderful news. I have always enjoyed my visits to the principality.