Costa Rica will consider recognizing
gay and lesbian couples with civil unions.
According to Reuters,
the Central American nation will this week announce a plan that seeks
civil unions.
“This week we will launch [draft
legislation], honoring the commitment our government made in this
area and …. we will open a space for consulting with various
organizations,” Ana Gabriel Zuniga, deputy minister of the
president, is quoted as saying.
The plan is for lawmakers to combine
two existing draft bills into one and debate the issue before April
30.
Gay rights proponents applauded the
news.
“We are happy that there is a
concrete commitment and a date,” Margarita Bolaños
with Foro por los Derechos Igualitarios (Forum for Equal Rights) told
reporters.
Marco Castillo with Movimiento
Diversidad (Diversity Movement) called the news a “step forward.”