Fridae

Two newlyweds in Hong Kong have spoken out against the city’s decision to reject a bill that would have granted limited recognition to same sex partnerships registered overseas. The couple, both professional musicians, said the veto was not only a personal setback but also a blow to Hong Kong’s global reputation as an open and modern city.

The couple married through a U.S. officiant and celebrated their wedding in Bali. They explained that, while their union is valid elsewhere, it is not recognised in Hong Kong. This lack of recognition affects everyday matters such as hospital visitation, medical consent, and inheritance rights. They noted that the rejection of the bill leaves them without even these basic protections.

The musicians stressed that their story is not just about them. They argued that international companies and skilled workers watch these legal signals when deciding where to live and invest. If families like theirs are excluded, they said, the city risks losing talent to other hubs such as Singapore, Taipei, or Bangkok, where LGBTQ+ rights are moving forward.

Rights groups echoed their concerns. Amnesty International and local advocacy networks described the vote as a missed chance to comply with the Court of Final Appeal’s 2023 ruling, which required the government to create a framework for recognising same sex partnerships. The government has not yet outlined any replacement plan, raising the risk of further court action.

Opponents of the bill claimed society is not ready for even limited legal recognition. But polls suggest that public attitudes in Hong Kong are changing, with growing support for equal rights. Regional comparisons also make the city’s stance look outdated. Taiwan introduced full marriage equality in 2019, and Thailand’s equal marriage law took effect in January 2025.

The newlyweds said they will continue to speak up. They emphasised their love for Hong Kong and their desire to see it thrive as a city that welcomes all families. They believe change will come, but worry about the hardship that couples must face until then.