lituanie
In a landmark decision on April 17, 2025, Lithuania's Constitutional Court ruled that the existing legal framework, which only recognized partnerships between a man and a woman, is unconstitutional. The court found that Article 3.229 of the Civil Code, by excluding same-sex couples from legal recognition, violated the constitutional principles of equality and human dignity.
The ruling emphasized that societal stereotypes cannot justify denying or restricting fundamental rights and freedoms. It stated that a legal framework based on prejudice against same-sex couples is incompatible with the Constitution, which upholds values of equality, pluralism, and tolerance inherent in a democratic society.
As a result of this decision, same-sex couples in Lithuania now have the right to register their partnerships through the courts, even in the absence of specific legislation. The court also mandated the Lithuanian Parliament to enact laws formalizing the registration of civil partnerships, addressing the legal uncertainty and insecurity caused by the prolonged lack of such legislation.
This ruling marks a significant step forward in the recognition and protection of LGBTQ+ rights in Lithuania, aligning the country's legal framework with broader European human rights standards.
