Countries allowing same-sex adoption

In addition to the traditional difficulties associated with the adoption process, there are other obstacles that prevent same-sex couples from starting a family. Even today, there are still countries that categorically refuse to allow lesbians or gays to care for a child simply because of their sexual orientation. While some nations view these same-sex families negatively, others grant them adoption on the same basis as heterosexuals. In Europe as elsewhere, these open-minded countries share their borders with the most traditional ones.

But which ones are they?

Northern European countries

In the old continent, more than 20 countries have allowed marriage between two people of the same sex. Some nations are still reluctant to legalize this unconventional civil union, while others are taking it to the next level by giving them the opportunity to adopt a child. In case of non-adoption in your country, here are some of the destinations that are favourable to LGBT adoption.

Denmark

Known for its liberalism in matters relating to sexuality, this northern country ranks first among those who have validated the right to marriage for everyone. Since 1989, the Danish state has already allowed people of the same sex to have a civil status. Ten years later, an important step was taken: one of the gay couples had the opportunity to adopt his partner’s child. It was not until 2010 that same-sex partners had the right to adopt a child together, even if they were not married. From there, other northern countries followed or copied the Danish example by advocating the best interests of the child.

The Netherlands

In the Netherlands, the relationship between two people of the same sex has remained a simple contract since 1998. The year 2001 marks the possibility of a civil marriage between two women or two men. Even if the partner is married to the child’s biological parent, he or she does not automatically become the second legal parent. He or she must go through the normal adoption procedures to obtain this title. A gay couple has the right to jointly adopt a baby, provided that the baby is a Dutch national and resides in the Netherlands at the time of adoption.

What about the other northern countries?

Norway and Iceland are among the countries that allow homosexuals to start a family through the adoption of a child. These states allow not only the joint adoption of a child, but also access to medically assisted procreation. Since 1999, Sweden has been recognizing the rights of same-sex families and giving them the opportunity to be the legitimate parent of a child. This 2003 legislation was accompanied in 2005 by the authorization to use MAP (medically assisted procreation) for homosexual couples. Before that date, it was simply a partnership recognized by the state.

What about the other European countries?

Since the entry into force of same-sex marriage, France and Belgium have authorized the joint adoption of a child. On the other hand, these two countries have a small difference, notably in terms of freedom and adoption conditions.

In Belgium, an unmarried gay couple undertakes a difficult adoption of a child as a single person. Then, the other partner can apply to be the second parent in court. While in France, adoption is not always granted for single people. In Spain and the United Kingdom, same-sex couples have the right to claim recognition of their spouse’s child or to adopt it ordinarily.

Possibility of evolution?

For the Member States of the European Union, the parliament plans to soften or even abolish all forms of discrimination against homosexual couples. Whether it is a question of marriage or adoption, limiting the establishment of a same-sex household is an infringement of human rights.

Faced with unequal legislation in the EU, gay and lesbian couples may face non-recognition of their rights if they move from one country to another. This is why the European Commission is advocating for the mutual recognition of their rights in all territories.

What about the rest of the world?

In addition to the United States and Canada, other countries around the world recognize the right of gay couples to adoption. On the American continent, Colombia, Uruguay, Brazil, Mexico and Argentina are the first to give their approval to same-sex adoption.

Known for being traditionalist, Africa is less open than the rest of the world. However, South Africa is an exception, allowing same-sex unions and adoptions since 2006. Australia and New Zealand have made great progress in allowing civil unions for same-sex couples.

With all these obstacles related to the formation of a same-sex family, you or your partner may hesitate to take the step and assume your homosexuality. On Coparentalys, you will find plenty of couples who want to adopt. By signing up, you have the possibility to share your experience and be supported.