EU court orders all EU countries to recognize same-sex marriages

On November 25, 2025, the Court of Justice of the European Union issued a landmark ruling that requires all member states to recognize same-sex marriages performed within the territory of any EU member state. This ruling is aimed at protecting the fundamental rights of citizens of the Union, in particular freedom of movement, and does not require states to change their national legislation on the legalization of such unions.

According to the source, the reason for the proceedings was the case of two Polish citizens whose marriage was registered in Germany, but the Polish authorities refused to recognize it. The EU Court of Justice found that the refusal of recognition violated the right to freedom of movement and residence, as well as the right to respect for private and family life. The ruling emphasized that citizens must be able to maintain a “normal family life” both in the host country and when returning home.

The court separately clarified that its ruling does not oblige member states to legalize same-sex marriage in domestic law. However, countries cannot discriminate against foreign civil status documents if similar documents issued to heterosexual couples are recognized without restriction.

The ruling has resonated widely against the backdrop of the domestic political situation in Poland. Despite the fact that the country’s new government is working on a bill on civil partnerships, President Karol Nawrocki has already announced his intention to veto “any bill that undermines the constitutional status of marriage.”

As a reminder, on September 6, 2025, in the Shrine of the Most Holy Name of Jesus in Rome, representatives of the RCC celebrated Mass for homosexual Catholics. The event was held “with the blessing” of Pope Leo XIV and gathered about 1200 participants. The Mass was led by Bishop Francesco Savino, vice president of the Italian Bishops’ Conference.