Progress in Same-Sex Family Rights! Joint Adoption for Same-Sex Couples Approved!

Taiwan Legalized Same-Sex Marriage in 2019, Becoming the First Country in Asia to Do So

This marked a historic step in overcoming gender-based prejudices in marriage and family. However, same-sex families still faced challenges when it came to joint child custody rights. The legal ambiguity created a significant issue under the same-sex marriage laws.

For example: HuaHua and DuoDuo got married and adopted a child, with HuaHua listed as the guardian. But if something were to happen to HuaHua, the child couldn’t be raised by DuoDuo, as they would not have legal custody. The child might be forced to leave the family and either return to an institution or be placed with unfamiliar relatives, which is not only unfair to same-sex families but also a serious violation of the child's best interests.

After Four Years of Advocacy, the Law Has Finally Changed!

This legislative reform completes the picture of a more inclusive same-sex family, allowing both partners to be legal guardians of their children. The passing of this amendment is undoubtedly a much-appreciated gift for same-sex families. It not only safeguards children's rights but also ensures the right of same-sex couples to jointly adopt.

Once again, the world witnesses the value of Taiwan's multicultural society. By including the right to co-parent, this law strengthens the rights of the LGBTQ+ community in Taiwan, offering greater protection.

We would also like to extend a special thanks to the organizations and advocates who fought tirelessly for this reform, helping Taiwan make a major step forward toward marriage equality.

• Rainbow Equality Platform @equallove.tw

• LGBTQ+ Family Rights Promotion Association @lgbtfamily_tw

• LGBTQ+ Hotline @taiwanhotline

• Taiwan Partners Rights Advocacy Alliance @tapcpr