Comment: ECJ ruling pushes Polish marriage law into the 21st century

The ECJ had made a wise decision, he said Philip Raillon. In Poland, marriage law is entering the 21st century. And this is an example for other EU countries such as Hungary or Romania, where queer groups are disadvantaged.

The European Court has finally pushed Polish marriage law into the 21st century. Anyone who visits Warsaw at the weekend usually finds the city young, open and lively. Queer life is no longer a fringe phenomenon that only occurs in dark basements.

It makes sense that everyone who loves each other can get married – even in Poland. Yes, it also means certain rights. Rights that some conservative groups don’t want to give to queer people. But why not? “Marriage for all” does not mean that anything will be taken from anyone. This does not denigrate heterosexual marriage.

Judgment is clear and careful at the same time

Therefore, what is more important is that the country, society and we as a European community have the values ​​to defend ourselves and no longer discriminate against queer groups. It is sad that by 2025 this group will still not have a majority in all EU countries. In this regard, it would be good if the European Court of Justice now helps Poland as an example. He made a wise decision. A decision that also sends an important signal to other countries such as Hungary or Romania, where queer people are also disadvantaged in many places.

Today’s decision is clear and at the same time careful. The ECJ emphasized: How marriage laws are drafted is a matter for member states. So Poland can decide for itself whether same-sex couples are allowed to marry in Poland or not – that’s the careful part.

However, if a same-sex couple marries in another EU country, Polish authorities must recognize the marriage. That is an obvious part of the judgment. In fact, this should pave the way to marriage for queer couples from Poland. Later, you can get married in Germany and then use the rights of married couples in Poland.

Same sex Marriage is not the end of the Western world

This decision may be contrary to the opinion of many conservative Catholic groups in Poland. Now what is more important is the liberal forces that explain the ruling. This makes it clear that same-sex marriage is not the end of the Western world. This does not shake social peace, but rather creates it.

The ruling will not only push Polish marriage law into the 21st century. This could even pave the way for same-sex weddings and related celebrations to be held not only in Berlin, Madrid or Amsterdam, but directly in Warsaw, Gdansk or Wroclaw. And that would be a win for everyone.