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IMPACT – MEDIUM
What is the change? Taiwan’s highest court has ruled that laws defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman are unconstitutional.
What does the change mean? The ruling sets the stage for Taiwan to possibly recognize same-sex marriage, though the court gave parliament two years to pass the necessary legislation to move into compliance with the ruling. Recognition of same-sex marriage could have immigration impacts, in particular for foreign employees in a same-sex relationship, but it is not clear at this point whether lawmakers will fully recognize same-sex marriage or attempt to comply with the ruling in a way that does not extend full marriage rights.
Background: Taiwan’s constitutional court ruled Wednesday that laws preventing same-sex marriage violated constitutional provisions guaranteeing equality and all other “freedoms and rights” that “are not detrimental to social order or public welfare.” The parliament, the Legislative Yuan, now has two years to comply with the ruling, though it is not clear what type of legislation will emerge. A bill to legalize same-sex marriage has stalled despite support from President Tsai Ing-wen. The court said that if parliament has not taken action in two years, same-sex couples would be able to register based on the ruling.
BAL Analysis: BAL is watching progress on same-sex marriage legislation and will update clients on important developments.
This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Taiwan. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.
Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.
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