Same-sex marriage in Costa Rica is days away after motion to delay is defeated

Same-sex marriage in Costa Rica will be legal on May 26.

The Legislative Assembly on Tuesday rejected a motion that asked for same-sex marriage to remain forbidden in Costa Rica for at least 18 more months.

While that motion had dubious legal standing anyway, it’s now official: Between the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, the Supreme Court of Justice and the Legislative Assembly, there remain no major legal hurdles to clear.

President Carlos Alvarado also supports same-sex marriage, and that stance played a significant role in his election.

“I fully share the opinion issued by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights … based on our deep belief in equality and defense of human rights,” he said during his candidacy.

No specific legislation will be passed on May 26; instead, articles of the country’s family code that explicitly prevent same-sex marriage will be repealed.

While the coronavirus pandemic prevents mass gatherings, virtual celebrations — including a broadcast organized by Sí Acepto Costa Rica — will commemorate the date.

“Decades of effort and struggle for rights reach a historic moment on May 26 when Costa Rica becomes the first country in Central America to approve civil marriage for people of the same sex,” the event invitation reads.