Partnerships (partenariats) for same-sex and opposite-sex couples were legalised in Luxembourg through legislation in July 2004, which took effect on 1 November 2004. They have many of the rights of marriage in relation to access to welfare benefits and fiscal advantages but not the same as marriage. They do not give the right to jointly adopt children.[1][2][3]
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The ruling Christian Social People's Party until 2009 was opposed to same-sex marriage, even though the Prime Minister, originating from the same party, has expressed his personal support.[4] In July 2007, the motion calling for legalisation of same-sex marriage was rejected by parliament, on a 38-22 vote.[5]
In July 2009, the Government of Luxembourg, led by Jean-Claude Juncker, announced its intention to legalise same-sex marriage.[6][7] During a debate on 19 January 2010, the Minister of Justice, François Biltgen announced that a law to legalise same-sex marriage (with exception of certain adoption rights) would be finalized before the summer vacation break of the parliament.[8][9] On 9 July 2010, the government accepted the bill;[10][11][12][13] on 10 August 2010, it was submitted to the parliament.[14]
In May 2012, the bill was re-drafted and the vote is not expected at least until 2013.[14][15][16] On 27 November 2012, the Council of State delivered a negative response to the bill, but asked the Parliament to open a debate on the topic if it moved to vote on the bill. Some members of the Council submitted separate opinion supporting the bill.[17]
On 6 February 2013, the Chamber's justice committee agreed to approve the measure opening marriage for same-sex couples.[18] On 20 February, the committee initially backed the right to simple adoption for same-sex couples.[19][20] On 6 March 2013, the committee confirmed that position.[21][22] The Chamber of Deputies is poised to vote on the bill before the summer recession. The bill, which is backed by the government, needs at least 31 yes to be approved.[23]
A 2006 Angus Reid Global Monitor poll found that 58% of Luxembourgers supported same-sex marriage.[24]
An April 2013 Polimonitor survey commisioned by the Luxemburger Wort and RTL found support for same-sex marriage at 83% and for same-sex adoption at 55%.[25]
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