Mar 20 • 11:18 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece Naftemporiki

Supreme Court: Same-sex married couples can adopt children – The reasoning behind the decision

The Greek Council of State has ruled that same-sex couples can adopt children, affirming the constitutionality of same-sex marriage and adoption rights established in May 2025.

The Greek Council of State recently published a decision confirming that same-sex marriages, and consequently the adoption of children by same-sex couples, is constitutional. This ruling affirms that these rights do not violate the constitutional protection of childhood or the child's best interests. The court emphasized that the law allows same-sex couples to legally adopt without infringing on the rights of heterosexual couples to marry and have families.

The ruling also reassured that the Orthodox Christian Church's traditions and rules regarding marriage and family formation are not under threat. The court stated that compliance with these rules is a personal choice for Orthodox Christians, indicating that the establishment of same-sex marriage and adoption does not conflict with established religious practices. This acknowledgment of religious rights alongside civil liberties underscores a commitment to a pluralistic society where varying beliefs can coexist.

This decision marks a significant step toward equal rights for same-sex couples in Greece, reflecting changes in societal attitudes and an increasing recognition of diverse family structures. The implications of this ruling extend beyond legal recognition; they represent a broader acceptance of LGBTQ+ communities, potentially influencing similar legislation across other jurisdictions in Europe and prompting discussions on the rights of same-sex couples in diverse cultural contexts.

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