Estonia: Same-sex marriage legal as of New Year

Same-sex marriage is now legal under Estonian law as of 1 January 2024, ERR reports. The law allows two consenting adults to marry irrespective of their gender. Minister of Social Protection Signe Riisalo said that the law ensured equal rights, ending years of legal uncertainty. Same-sex couples, previously able to register civil partnerships, now enjoy extended rights. Also, the law provides for a simplified transition from civil partnership to marriage. The new law grants additional rights and obligations, particularly in areas such as benefits, property, housing, lineage, and inheritance. The legislation was passed by the Estonian parliament, the Riigikogu, in June 2023.