Naha recognizes same-sex partnerships

Naha recognizes same-sex partnerships

Naha Mayor Mikiko Shiroma displays an official certificate recognizing same-sex partnerships at Naha City Office on July 6.


July 8, 2016 Ryukyu Shimpo

Naha City introduced a new system on July 8 officially recognizing same-sex partnerships and will begin issuing partnership certificates to same-sex couples. The system recognizes same-sex partnerships as almost equivalent to marriage in law, aiming to make Naha a city that does not tolerate discrimination and prejudice against sexual minorities. According to Naha City, it is the fifth local government in the country to adopt such a measure and the first in the Kyushu/Okinawa area.

The system’s principles state that the Naha city office will issue certificates recognizing partnerships of same-sex couples living in the city who are aged 20 or older. Application details will be confirmed and certificates will be issued after one week. The municipal government said the certificates will be used by same-sex couples applying to move into city-owned residences and medical institutions.

From July 8, the city started accepting applications by phone. The application forms can be downloaded from the city’s website, with submissions starting on July 10.

(English translation by T&CT)

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