In a landmark decision, Warsaw registered its first same-sex marriage on Thursday, following court rulings compelling Poland to acknowledge same-sex unions formalized abroad. This move comes after a mandate from the European Union’s top court in November, requiring Poland to recognize such marriages, despite national laws that currently prohibit them.
Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski announced the issuance of the first marriage certificate transcription for a same-sex couple. He emphasized the city’s commitment to proactively recognizing other Polish same-sex marriages registered elsewhere in the EU, regardless of specific court rulings.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk assured that his government would find ways to implement these rulings promptly. Tusk also offered an apology to same-sex couples for years of rejection. Despite the rulings, Poland is not required to legalize same-sex marriage, facing resistance from conservative elements and President Karol Nawrocki.
(With inputs from agencies.)