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Learn more about latest judicial development and recognition of LGBT+ rights in the Hong Kong courts, as well as landmark overseas judgments.
MK v Government of HKSARSummarised by Rachel Mo (Associate)
Facts The applicant (‘MK’), who is a Hong Kong permanent resident, is a lesbian who has cohabited with her same-sex partner for two years. The same-sex couple hoped to gain formal recognition to their relationship through legally recognised civil union/registered partnerships in Hong Kong. Failing to do so, MK launched a judicial review to challenge the Basic Law (‘BL’) and Hong Kong Bill of Rights (‘HKBOR’) for the violation of such rights. Court of First Instance Two issues were raised for determination:
Issue 1 The issue was responded in the negative as the Court was unwilling to extend the existing statutory definition of “marriage” to include same-sex couples as this would constitute an interference to social policies and go beyond functions and power of courts. The Court opined that the expression ‘marriage’ at BL Article 37 refers only to heterosexual marriage, providing three reasons for such an interpretation:
The Court acknowledged international developments to recognising same-sex marriage, thus updates made on legislation interpretation may be conducive in adapting to the changing societal needs and to be consistent with the international community. However, the Court emphasised that there lacks strong and compelling evidence within the local community to depart from the long-standing interpretation to ‘marriage’ between opposite sex. Moreover, in view of the far-reaching social, legal and economic ramifications, the Court was reluctant to effect a policy change through such interpretation. Issue 2 The issue was responded in the negative as the Court bore no positive obligation in providing an alternative legal framework to grant same-sex couples the identical rights and benefits of heterosexual couples. 3 reasons are identified:
Comment The road to a level-playing field in marriage equality has been lacking behind in Asia. Though Hong Kong courts are rather reluctant in altering the status quo given the wide social implications which would be resulted, it is acknowledged that a diverse views exists locally in terms of the rights and recognitions that should be enjoyed by same-sex couples. Ultimately, the government should undertake a more pro-active role in undertaking a comprehensive review on the existing legislation, policies and decisions to same-sex relationships, in order to better safeguard equality rights for all.
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