Romanian Govt Opposes Bill Introducing Civil Unions

The Executive will send this position to the Parliament, in response to a bill put forward by democrat liberal deputy Viorel Arion, who suggests creating the legal framework for civil unions, according to a government paper obtained by MEDIAFAX.

The bill aims to grant legal character to domestic partnerships between two people, based on a notarized contract, providing rights and obligations regarding joint wealth and expenses. This relationship is not exclusive to different-sex couples, according to the act.

In the government document, the Labor Ministry says the bill should refer to the partners’ minor children, and points out that it requires amending the Civil Code. The Justice Ministry said the initiative cannot be endorsed, given the Civil Code, adopted by the Government through a vote of confidence in Parliament in June 2009.

The Legislative Council, a specialized consulting body of the Parliament, gave a favorable report on the bill, but warned that the Civil Code forbids same-sex marriage and Romania does not recognize foreign civil unions.