Singapore Lifts Gay Sex Ban But Limits Legalizing Gay Marriage
On Tuesday, Singapore's parliament decriminalized sex between men. However, in a blow to the LGBTQ+ community, it also amended the constitution to prevent court challenges that could lead to the legalization of same-sex marriage.
The moves come as other parts of Asia, including Taiwan, Thailand, and India are recognizing more rights for the LGBTQ+ community.
Reuters reports activists cheered the repeal, but said the amendment to the constitution is disappointing because it means citizens will not be able to mount legal challenges to issues like the definition of marriage, family, and related policies since these will only be decided by the executive and legislature.
Defending the amendments, the government said decisions on such issues should not be led by the courts. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his successor have ruled out any changes to the current legal definition of marriage as being between a man and a woman.
“We will try and maintain a balance… to uphold a stable society with traditional, heterosexual family values, but with space for homosexuals [sic] to live their lives and contribute to society,” Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam said in parliament this week.
There is no timeline yet for when the new laws take effect. The changes do, however, leave room for a future parliament to expand the definition of marriage to include same-sex relationships.
Bryan Choong, chair of LGBTQ+ advocacy group Oogachaga, said it was a historic moment for activists who have been campaigning for a repeal of the law, known as Section 377A, for 15 years. But, he added, LGBTQ+ couples and families also “have the right to be recognized and protected.”
Singapore has shifted to a more liberal stance when it comes to LGBTQ+ issues. Although conservative attitudes remain among religious groups. Of those aged 18-25, about 42% accepted same-sex marriage in 2018, up from 17% just five years prior, according to a survey by the Institute of Policy Studies.
Read related myGwork articles here:
Gay Marriage Becomes Next Battle in Singapore
Singapore To Uphold Anti-Gay Laws Making Homosexuality Illegal
Singapore In Consideration Of Decriminalizing Gay Sex
LGBT+ Campaigners Protest Criminalisation of Homosexuality in Singapore With Light Show
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