Progress for Same-Sex Couples in Monaco Still Leaves Families Behind
Civil Unions in Monaco: A Step Forward, But Not Far Enough
Since 2019, Monaco has legally recognized civil partnerships—referred to as the Contrat de Vie Commune (CVC)—for both heterosexual and same-sex couples. The introduction of the CVC marked a significant, albeit delayed, advancement following France’s earlier adoption of the PACS in 1999. While the CVC provides certain legal benefits—such as shared inheritance rights and the ability to make medical decisions for one another—it fails to address one critical area of family life: parental rights.
Legal Challenges Around Same-Sex Parenting
Under current Monegasque law, same-sex couples who are raising children face a troubling legal disparity. Only the biological parent is officially recognized, even if the couple is in a legally binding civil union. The non-biological partner is denied any legal parental standing, regardless of their day-to-day involvement, love, and responsibility in the child’s life. This legal gap creates real vulnerabilities, particularly in cases of separation, illness, or the death of the biological parent.
In contrast, France began offering equal parental recognition to same-sex couples in 2019—highlighting how Monaco still lags behind on this essential family protection.
A Growing Call for Child-Centered Legislation
Béatrice Fresko-Rolfo, National Council member and chair of the Commission for Women’s Rights, Family, and Equality, has been vocal about this shortfall. Speaking publicly on October 7, she referred to the issue as “a legal loophole in our system,” emphasizing that “children must be protected under all circumstances.” Her statements echo the urgent need for inclusive family laws that recognize and protect all parental figures involved in a child’s upbringing.
Living as an ‘Invisible’ Parent
The daily impact of this legal invisibility is significant. Cynthia, a spokesperson for the advocacy group Monarcenciel, described her own experience. Although legally married abroad to her partner, only her partner—the biological mother—is recognized as a parent in Monaco. “At daycare, one of us is invisible,” she explained. This lack of recognition extends to rights such as child-related social benefits. While eligibility often considers combined household income, only the legally acknowledged parent receives the financial support.
Monarcenciel, an advocacy organization focused on achieving equality for same-sex families, now includes more than 100 members. Despite growing awareness, its leaders agree that the road to genuine equality remains long and filled with institutional barriers.
Momentum Builds for Legal Reform
Fresko-Rolfo continues to champion changes in the law, making the issue a cornerstone of her political agenda. On October 13, she reaffirmed her dedication during an interview with France 3 Côte d’Azur, stating, “We must address this gap in the law for the best interests of the child.” She urged the adoption of equal parental rights for all couples, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. “Throughout my mandate, I will fight to ensure that every child and every parent is recognized and protected under the law.”
Among the key proposals being considered is “second-parent adoption.” This legal mechanism would formally recognize the non-biological partner as a parent, giving both members of a same-sex couple equal standing. Such a solution would provide a more stable legal structure for the children involved, ensuring their emotional and legal security.
Marriage Equality Remains a Taboo Topic
Despite limited progress through civil unions, marriage equality remains an unresolved and sensitive issue in Monaco. No formal legislation has been introduced to legalize same-sex marriage. Even public discussions about it often provoke discomfort or resistance.
As a result, many same-sex Monegasque couples are opting to marry abroad. Unfortunately, these marriages—and the parental rights that often come with them—receive no official recognition upon returning to Monaco. This legal disconnect continues to raise concerns among both the general public and lawmakers, several of whom, including Fresko-Rolfo, are pushing for urgent reform.
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