**Ukraine Takes a Significant Step Towards Marriage Equality**
In a landmark ruling, the Desniansky District Court in Kyiv has officially recognized a same-sex couple as a family, marking a major breakthrough for LGBTQ rights in Ukraine. The case involves Zoryan Kis, first secretary of Ukraine’s Embassy in Israel, and his partner Tymur Levchuk, who have been living together since 2013.
The court ruled on June 10 that their relationship constitutes a de facto marriage, establishing them as a family under Ukrainian law. This decision is significant not only for the couple but also for the broader LGBTQ community in Ukraine, where same-sex marriages and partnerships are not currently recognized.
The ruling comes after Kis and Levchuk faced difficulties due to the lack of recognition of their relationship by the Ukrainian authorities. The Foreign Ministry had refused to acknowledge Levchuk as Kis’ family member, denying him spousal rights to accompany Kis on his diplomatic posting to Israel. In response, the couple filed a legal complaint in September 2024.
The court’s decision is based on both the Ukrainian Constitution and precedents from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), which emphasizes the need for states to ensure legal recognition and protection for same-sex families. The court considered evidence such as shared finances, property, witness testimony, joint travel records, photographs, correspondence, and other documents establishing a long-term domestic partnership.
Kis expressed gratitude towards the judge who heard the case, saying that this ruling is “a very big and important step toward marriage equality in Ukraine” and a small victory in their struggle for ‘simple family happiness’ as Ukrainian diplomats. This development reflects shifting public opinion in Ukraine, with 70% of Ukrainians believing LGBTQ citizens should have equal rights, according to a 2024 poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology.
However, legislative progress remains slow, with a draft law recognizing civil partnerships introduced by Holos party lawmaker Inna Sovsun in March 2023 still pending approval from the Legal Policy Committee. The proposed bill would legalize civil partnerships for both same-sex and heterosexual couples, offering them inheritance, medical, and property rights but not the full status of marriage.
**A Step Towards Equality**
This court ruling may serve as a critical legal milestone in expanding rights for LGBTQ families in Ukraine. It highlights the importance of considering human rights precedents from international organizations like the ECHR and the need to ensure equal recognition and protection for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
As Ukraine continues to navigate its relationship with Russia and work towards rebuilding its economy and society, this decision demonstrates that there are steps being taken towards greater equality and justice. The path ahead will be challenging, but this ruling offers hope that future legislative developments can lead to a more inclusive and accepting society for all Ukrainians.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
