The Hong Kong Legislative Council on September 10th overwhelmingly voted down the controversial Same-Sex Partner Relationship Registration Bill, ending the government’s proposal that contradicted traditional marriage values. This marks the first government bill rejected in nearly four years of the current council’s term.

Most political parties and legislators had already indicated they would vote against it. Among the 87 members present, only 14 voted in favor, 71 voted against, and 1 abstained, resulting in the bill being decisively defeated.

Draft Bill Proposed in Response to Cen Zijie Court Case to Establish “Alternative Framework” for Same-Sex Relationships

The bill was drafted following a ruling two years ago by the Court of Final Appeal in the case of Cen Zijie, a member of the LGBT advocacy group Rainbow Action. Its aim was to establish an “alternative framework” recognizing same-sex partnerships before the October deadline, granting basic rights such as handling medical and posthumous affairs for same-sex couples.

The draft proposed setting up an office to register same-sex partnerships already recognized overseas, sparking widespread public debate. Opponents argued that the bill would undermine Hong Kong’s traditional one-man-one-woman marriage system and family values, suggesting that the government could grant basic rights to same-sex couples through administrative means instead. Additionally, critics pointed out that the bill was rushed forward without broad public consultation.

Opposition: Recognizing Same-Sex Relationships Would Undermine Traditional Values

During the resumption of the second reading, several legislators spoke against the bill. Many noted that over 80% of submissions to the Bills Committee (“one person, one letter”) opposed the legislation. Legislator Junius Ho warned that the bill could have a domino effect, potentially leading to the legalization of same-sex marriage.

Lawrence Chow of the DAB also stated that registering same-sex partnerships was equivalent to recognizing same-sex marriage, likening it to opening a “Pandora’s box” that would inevitably overturn the one-man-one-woman marriage system in Hong Kong, causing traditional values to “collapse” and having serious consequences for the next generation.

Legislator Tik Chi-yuen, representing the social welfare sector, suggested improving the existing Enduring Power of Attorney system first and strengthening anti-discrimination education, opposing the rush to legislate recognition of same-sex partnerships. He also explicitly shared his Christian perspective, stating that only God has judgment authority, and as Christians, they should respond to the needs and struggles of homosexuals with gentleness and patience.

Priscilla Leung emphasized that marriage involves public interest, and the one-man-one-woman, monogamous marriage system reflects the choice of Hong Kong citizens and is protected under the Basic Law. She noted that while Hong Kong respects diversity, society should be educated not to discriminate against people of different sexual orientations, achieving a truly pluralistic society.

Lawmakers supporting the bill argued that, as a society under the rule of law, the government has the responsibility to implement the Court of Final Appeal’s ruling. They also considered the proposed legislation a “minimum standard” for protecting same-sex partners.

Christian Groups Pray Outside Legislative Council, Asking God to Protect Hong Kong’s Family System

On the eve of the second reading, Christian organization Joshua Project for Family Love held a press conference outside the Legislative Council to present joint petitions signed by over 7,300 citizens and nearly 50 Christian institutions expressing opposition. During the discussion and voting today, members conducted fasting prayers outside the Legislative Council’s government headquarters. Chairperson Chiu Pui-yuk expressed gratitude, stating that the bill was an “evil law attacking marriage and family” and that its defeat represents a victory for truth and family values.

Christian social concern group Ming Pao Social Concern Association welcomed the bill’s rejection and suggested the government explore more flexible alternative solutions, such as “close relationship authorizations”, that address practical needs without undermining existing values.

Originally published on Chinese Edition of Gospel Herald. This is a AI generated translation without proof reading.