It is still not possible for gays to get married in Suriname. And that will remain the case for the time being, according to a new assessment by the Constitutional Court. Two men who have been together for 34 years submitted a request to have their marriage recognized in Suriname, but that has now been rejected.

On Tuesday, January 31st, the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Suriname carried out an assessment of the Constitution regarding Article 80 of the Civil Code. This article deals with the qualifications and conditions for entering into marriage.

Right to non-discrimination

In addition to the request for this assessment, a petition was also submitted by two men who were married abroad (Argentina) but do not have access to marriage rights in Suriname, such as married heterosexual couples.

Two lawyers made the request on behalf of two men who have been in a relationship for 34 years. The two say that despite their right to non-discrimination and the respect for their private life, family life, and family life, they are prevented from fully exercising their rights by 80 BW. Their wish and intention to get married in Suriname and start a family or form a family is hindered by this Article 80.

only between man and woman The existing marriage legislation in Suriname is interpreted by the Constitutional Court as a provision under which a marriage can only be entered into between a man and a woman. At present, there is no possibility for lhbtq’s rights to be exercised. For the time being, specific legislation is lacking and the existing marriage legislation must be supplemented.

The Court concludes that the recognition of lhbtq’s rights is ‘evolving’. “Therefore, it can be stated that these rights are slowly receiving attention in society.” But for the time being, the marriage of the two men will not be recognized, as it is not currently in violation of the Constitution.