Latvia Introduces Civil Unions, Including for Same-Sex Couples

Latvia Introduces Civil Unions, Including for Same-Sex Couples

Latvia has recently adopted a new law introducing a civil union pact (Pacs), providing legal recognition for same-sex couples for the first time. This law, which came into effect on July 1, allows partners, whether heterosexual or homosexual, to benefit from certain advantages, including tax benefits. However, it does not grant them all the rights of married couples, such as inheritance rights or the right to adopt children.

To enter into a civil union, couples must register with a notary rather than at the town hall. Despite these limitations, this legislative advancement marks an important step in recognizing the rights of same-sex couples in Latvia. Kaspars Zalitis, director of the LGBTQ rights advocacy organization “Partners for Life,” praised this initiative as “an important signal indicating that all families in Latvia are protected, valued, and recognized.”

Latvia thus joins its neighbor, Estonia, which has recognized civil unions for same-sex couples since 2016 and same-sex marriage since 2023. This progress follows the election in 2023 of Edgars Rinkevics, Latvia’s first openly gay president.