Latvian couple celebrates first same-sex partnership
In November, Latvia formally passed legislation after a successful legal challenge from 46 same-sex couples seeking recognition as family units. Now, Maksims Ringo and Janis Locs have made history in becoming the first same-sex couple in Latvia to register their partnership after midnight when the new law recognising their union came into effect.
The legislation can now ensure that all couples, including same-sex couples can officially register their relationship.
“We have been waiting for this day for a long time – since the day the law was adopted,” said Locs. “There is a bit of stress, of course, but it is a joy that we will finally be seen in front of the country,” he added.
Under the new law, a partnership can be established between two adults once they appear before a notary and certify their close personal relationship, shared household, and mutual commitment to support and care for one another. One notary, Aigars Kaupe emphasised the significance of the law, saying that it was crucial for society in Latvia to “recognise that people are different, relationships are different and all are valuable and all must be protected.”
The Latvian parliament formally passed the legislation in November 2023 after a successful legal challenge from 46 couples who sought recognition as family units. This leaves only five remaining EU countries where same-sex couples are unable to register for a civil union, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia.
