Fridae

Gay and lesbian couples in the Czech Republic may soon enjoy the benefits and responsibilities of married couples due to a recent bill approved by the government. This is the third such bill being submitted for approval to the Czech Chamber of Deputies, with the two earlier bills being rejected by the CoD. The bill aims to duplicate the legal relations and privileges of heterosexual couples, following all the laws governing marriage and divorce. Registration under this bill would give gay and lesbian couples full recognition of their partnership status, as well as social and financial benefits, such as pension rights, etc. The national group Gay Initiative was the strongest proponent of this bill.

Local religious groups and churches say they will not oppose the bill, as they see this matter as an entirely civil matter. They point out, however, that there are 2 marital rights excluded from the government's bill - adoption and the sharing of a common surname by partners.