A number of European countries legally recognise same-sex partners and have introduced laws allowing them to marry or register their unions. These laws differ from country to country and provide different levels of recognition, protections and rights. However, there are still many European countries which do not legally recognise same-sex partnerships and some even introduced legal provisions specifically excluding same-sex couples from marriage'. Zie ook: A5205 t/m A5216
Many EU countries have laws recognising same-sex marriage and registered partnerships, but most do not recognise each others' laws. For example, two lesbians are married in Belgium. To continue to benefit from the rights, responsibilities and protections outside Belgium, they can only move to one of a few EU countries which currently recognise their marriage. The lack of mutual recognition results in serious violations of one of the most fundamental EU principles - freedom of movement of citizens'. Zie ook: A5206 t/m A5216