Equal marriage rights movement has come a long way over the years. From being a criminal offense in some nations to being an actual basic right, it has seen bad days and some really good ones. The recent postal survey results in Australia certainly point towards a better future for the movement and the LGBTQ community. It would be interesting to know that same-sex marriages were legalized way back in 2001. Since then, twenty-five countries have passed legislation to legalize same-sex marriage. Let us have a look at almost 17 years and the countries that encourage same-sex marriage equality.
2001-2005: The Early Years- When countries started recognizing Same Sex Marriage
Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage across the world and came out as pioneers for the movement. Their legislation gave other countries to enact and pass bills for the same. In 2003, Belgium’s parliament passed same-sex marriage laws in the country. Two years later in 2005, Canada and Spain both became countries to allow same-sex marriage. In fact, Canada was the first country outside Europe to legalize it.
South Africa: 2005-2010- first nation to recognize same sex marriage
During this period, six more nations passed laws for same-sex marriage. In 2006, South Africa became the first nation to pass legislation on the matter. It was received with overwhelming support. Both Norway and Sweden had civil union laws in place which were replaced with full rights including marriage in 2009. In 2010, Portugal, Iceland, and Argentina passed laws for the same. Iceland’s Prime Minister at the time got married as a result of the legislation passing. In Argentina, there were some debates against as the law passed narrowly.
2010-present: Global Rise in the Movement
This period has seen a rise towards the support of the movement as more and more people are becoming aware and active towards fighting for their rights. In the period of seven years, nine countries have passed laws for equal marriage rights and the attitude of the governments have become more encouraging towards the Issue. USA, UK, France, and Brazil are amongst those whose movements give other countries and people all over the world, hope.