Marriage is No Longer Sexual Slavery: European Court Condemns France for "Marriage Obligation"
In a landmark decision, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has condemned France for imposing an outdated and discriminatory concept of marriage that restricts personal freedoms and violates human rights. The court has ruled that France’s traditional marriage law, which considers marriage a union between two individuals, must be reformed to reflect changing social norms and gender equality.
The case was brought by two women, both in their 50s, who had been living together for over 20 years and were denied a civil union in France, despite having built a life together. The ECHR has found that France’s failure to recognize same-sex relationships and impose an obligation on one partner to take the other’s last name and provide financial support has violated their rights to dignity, equality, and non-discrimination.
In its ruling, the ECHR has stated that "marriage is no longer seen as a purely sexual slavery institution, where a woman surrenders to her husband in exchange for his protection and care." The court has emphasized that modern marriage must recognize the equality and autonomy of all partners, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.
The ECHR’s decision has sparked a heated debate in France, with many lawmakers and social conservatives expressing concerns that the ruling undermines the traditional concept of marriage. However, many LGBTQ+ rights advocates and experts have hailed the decision as a significant victory for gender equality and human rights.
"The ECHR’s ruling sends a clear message that marriage must be a choice between two equals, not a form of servitude or submission," said Claire Benard, a French LGBTQ+ rights activist. "We are one step closer to recognizing the dignity and equality of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity."
The decision is likely to have significant implications for French family law and society. In the coming months, the French government is expected to introduce new legislation to recognize same-sex marriages and provide equal rights and benefits to all married couples, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.
As the debate continues in France, the ECHR’s ruling has also sent a clear message to other European countries: that marriage is a fundamental human right, not a privilege reserved for heterosexual couples. The court’s decision has marked a major step forward for human rights and equality in Europe, and it is likely to have far-reaching consequences for LGBTQ+ rights advocates around the world.
