Hong Kong will explore administrative options to safeguard the rights of same-sex couples following the legislative Council’s rejection of a bill that would have formally recognized same-sex partnerships, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced Tuesday.
The defeat of the Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill last week marked the first time a government proposal had been vetoed by Legco since Beijing’s electoral reforms aimed to ensure only “patriots” govern Hong Kong. despite the setback, lee stated the outcome demonstrated the Legislative Council is not a “rubber stamp,” countering previous criticisms.
The proposed legislation stemmed from a 2023 landmark court ruling advocating for greater rights for same-sex couples. However, lee reiterated that the city’s Basic Law defines marriage as between one man and one woman, a principle he affirmed ”will not change.”
Speaking to reporters before an Executive Council meeting, Lee acknowledged same-sex partnerships remain a “contentious issue” in Hong Kong, but indicated the government is considering option avenues to address the rights of same-sex couples through administrative means.
“One thing is very clear: the only marriage that is recognised under the Basic Law is heterosexual. that principle has not and will not change,” he said.