Introduction:
Marriage is a fundamental aspect of human social and cultural existence. It is a system that provides individuals the legal framework to formalize their loving relationships and provides them with fundamental legal, social, and economic rights and benefits.
For many years now, the issue of same-sex marriage has been a controversial topic around the globe, as there have been countless debates and concerns about legalizing it. Some individuals are of the opinion that legalizing same-sex marriage is a violation of their human rights, while others believe that it is their fundamental right to have their love and union acknowledged by society and the law.
In this paper, I will argue that not legalizing same-sex marriage violates basic human rights. Violation of the Right to Equality: Article 7 of the Declaration of Human Rights states that “All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law.” (Kraśnicka, 2019).
The denial of same-sex couples’ right to marry is, therefore, a flagrant violation of this basic human right. Gay individuals who cannot marry experience a fundamental lack of rights to which heterosexuals have free access. Marriage is a basic human right that must not be denied to same-sex couples solely on the basis of their sexual orientation.
Violation of the Right to Privacy:Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights highlights that “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home or correspondence, nor to attacks upon his honour and reputation.” Denying individuals the right to marry someone of their own gender violates their privacy.
In essence, the refusal of marriage rights for same-sex couples does not give them the same rights to pursue their happiness and freedom of association concerning their private life.Violation of the Right to Freedom of Association:Article 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights emphasizes individuals’ right to freedom of association.
It provides that “Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.” The denial of marriage rights to same-sex couples violates their right to freedom of association with someone whom they love and want to be with. It constitutes discrimination, which is a grave violation of their human rights.
Denial of the Right to Family: As stated in Article 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to have a family. It states that “Men and women of full age… have the right to marry and to found a family.”
Denying same-sex couples the right to marry and found a family constitutes a violation of their human rights. It is a cruel injustice to deprive the right to build a family to a group of individuals who are willing and able to do so, simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
This denial of family rights can have serious consequences for LGBTQ+ individuals and their loved ones. Without legal recognition of their relationships, same-sex couples may face obstacles in accessing health care, inheritance rights, and other benefits that married couples take for granted. (Murungi, 2015)They may also face discrimination and stigma from society at large.
Furthermore, children raised in same-sex families are just as deserving of legal protection and recognition as children raised in opposite-sex families. Research has consistently shown that children raised by same-sex parents do just as well as those raised by opposite-sex parents, and denying same-sex couples the right to adopt or have biological children only serves to harm these children and families.
Overall, denying same-sex couples the right to marry and found a family is a clear violation of their human rights. It is essential that we continue to fight for equality and justice for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity..
Denying same-sex couples access to marriage and the ability to start a family based on their sexual orientation reinforces discrimination and marginalization. It restricts their basic human right to love and start a family with the person they choose.
This kind of discrimination can lead to social exclusion, isolation, humiliation and even violence against members of the LGBTQ+ community. The struggle for LGBTQ+ rights is an ongoing battle, and it is important to continue working towards equal rights, justice, and dignity for all individuals.Legalizing same-sex marriage and adoption is a significant step towards achieving equality.
It sends a powerful message that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity will not be tolerated and that everyone deserves the right to love and form a family.It is important to recognize that human rights must be recognized and upheld regardless of religious beliefs, cultural traditions or political affiliations. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and society as a whole benefits from a culture of inclusivity and acceptance.
The denial of the right to marry and start a family for same-sex couples is a clear violation of their human rights. It is crucial that we work towards equality and justice for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, refusing to legalize same-sex marriage is a breach of numerous fundamental human rights. These include rights to equality, privacy, freedom of association, and family. One must understand that the denial of basic human rights creates social and economic disparities, lower self-worth, and stigma for individuals and couples who are not allowed to access them.
It is high time for the members of our society to come together, and everyone receives the same fundamental human rights, including legalizing same-sex marriage. Let’s join hands and fight for the equality, rights, and dignity of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Legalizing same-sex marriage would also have positive socio-economic benefits. Studies have shown that countries with legalized same-sex marriage have experienced higher economic growth, increased tourism, and enhanced social cohesion.
Additionally, allowing same-sex couples to marry would provide them with legal protections and benefits, including medical decision-making, inheritance rights, and access to benefits like social security, health insurance, and family leave.
Denying these rights to same-sex couples not only harms them but also weakens the fabric of our society.Furthermore, denying same-sex couples the right to marry perpetuates harmful stereotypes and prejudices. It reinforces the idea that heterosexual relationships are superior and that same-sex relationships are abnormal or immoral.
This stigmatization can lead to discrimination, harassment, and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.In conclusion, legalizing same-sex marriage is not only a matter of equality and human rights but also a necessary step towards creating a more just and inclusive society.
Together, we can promote tolerance, understanding, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is time to embrace the diversity of our world and recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every person.
Legalizing same-sex marriage is essential because it affirms and recognizes the love and commitment between two individuals, regardless of their gender. (Kraśnicka, 2019)Denying same-sex couples the right to marriage can lead to social exclusion and a sense of alienation. It can also cause emotional and mental distress as individuals struggle with discrimination and prejudice.
Furthermore, legalizing same-sex marriage can provide significant economic benefits to society. Marriage equality can have a positive impact on the economy, including increased revenue from wedding-related expenses such as catering, florists, and hotels.
It can also encourage more tourism and boost the real estate market, as same-sex couples tend to live in areas where they feel accepted and have legal protections.In summary, legalizing same-sex marriage is a necessary step towards creating a fairer, more just, and inclusive society.
It affirms the value and dignity of every individual and promotes equality under the law. Together, we can work towards a world where all individuals are free to love and live as they choose.