In a groundbreaking move, Taiwan has once again cemented its position as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia. Building upon the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2019, the country has now approved a significant amendment to an existing law, extending full adoption rights to same-sex couples. This monumental milestone comes after years of relentless advocacy by LGBTQ+ activists.
The extension to the Same-Sex Marriage Act, sanctioned on May 16, enables same-sex couples to jointly adopt children to whom neither of them is biologically related. Previously, this right had only been available to heterosexual couples and single individuals. Prior to this amendment, if a same-sex couple sought to adopt a child, only one of them could register as the child’s legal parent, leaving the other without the same rights and recognition.
Lawmaker Fan Yun, representing the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), expressed immense excitement at the granting of joint adoption rights to same-sex couples. Fan Yun emphasized that this legal provision restores same-sex couples to their rightful position as parents, highlighting that parental love knows no boundaries. Through joint adoption, the rights and interests of each partner can be protected by law, further affirming the importance of equality and inclusivity.
The journey toward same-sex adoption rights in Taiwan gained momentum with a pivotal ruling in December 2021. In a case in Kaohsiung City, a gay man named Wang Chen-wei was granted the right to adopt his husband’s child. The family court ruled that Wang Chen-wei’s previously adopted child could also be legally recognized as the child of his spouse. Although the ruling initially applied solely to their specific case, it ignited a pressing need to address the broader issue of same-sex adoption rights across the country.
Taiwan’s recent LGBTQ+ Pride celebration marked a joyful occasion, as the nation emerged from strict COVID-19 restrictions. With over 120,000 enthusiastic participants flooding the streets of Taipei, the event symbolized not only a celebration of diversity and love but also a testament to the progress made in advancing LGBTQ+ rights. The introduction of same-sex adoption rights stands as another significant stride forward, reinforcing Taiwan’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and equal society.
Through its unwavering determination to protect and recognize the rights of same-sex couples, Taiwan continues to inspire nations around the world to reevaluate their own policies and strive for greater acceptance and equality.