Summary
Hong Kong's lawmakers have rejected a bill that would have granted some rights to same-sex couples married overseas. The bill was proposed to comply with a court ruling but faced opposition for being insufficient and conflicting with traditional values.
Key Facts
- Hong Kong lawmakers voted against a bill granting limited rights to same-sex couples.
- The bill was rejected by 71 members of the Legislative Council out of 89.
- It aimed to comply with a 2023 court ruling necessitating legal recognition of same-sex unions.
- The proposed rights included hospital visits and medical decision-making for a spouse.
- The city's chief executive, John Lee, supported the bill, warning that rejection could harm the rule of law.
- There is increasing public support for same-sex marriages, with 60% in favor according to a 2023 survey.
- The legislation's rejection creates a rare split between Hong Kong's government and its legislature.
- Amnesty International and activists criticized the rejection for not adequately protecting LGBTQ rights.
