We are thrilled to announce a landmark achievement in Lithuanian human rights history. For the first time ever, on August 8, 2025, a Lithuanian court has officially recognized the family relationship between two women in the form of a partnership and ordered the state to register their relationship as a civil status act.
The Vilnius City District Court ruled in favor of two female plaintiffs, acknowledging their partnership (cohabitation without registered marriage) as a legally recognized family relationship. This groundbreaking decision represents a historic step forward toward equality and dignity for all couples in Lithuania.
In April, the Constitutional Court ruled that restricting partnership definitions to opposite-sex couples violates the constitution, as does delaying legal recognition of cohabitation pending separate legislation. This decision enables courts to directly apply existing Civil Code partnership provisions—enacted 24 years ago—until parliament establishes a comprehensive registration framework.
This victory comes at a time when LGBTIQ+ community and its continues to demonstrate remarkable courage:
- 20,000 people marched for equality at Baltic Pride
- Same-sex families are steadfastly defending their rights in courts
- Transgender individuals fight daily for their right to be themselves
The question remains: When will the Lithuanian Parliament find even a fraction of the courage our community displays daily and implement constitutional principles of equality?
LGL supported the legal battle since its beginning in April, 2023, initiated by the Tolerant Youth Association. The case has reached the highest legal instances, including the Constitutional Court and the European Court of Human Rights, with decisions still pending.
