“We identify as Serbian citizens and deserve someone to address our concerns without neglecting us,” remarked Aleksandra Gavrilović, spokesperson for “Labris” and “Rainbow Families” to Radio Free Europe (RFE).

Gavrilovic’s response was prompted by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s recent declaration that he will not endorse the law for “same-sex marriages”.

The approval of the Law on Civil Partnerships for individuals of the same gender ranks among the key demands of Serbia’s LGBT+ community. Similar legislations have been enacted in neighboring regions, including Croatia and Montenegro.

Although the law underwent public discussion in March 2021, the timeline for its advancement into the adoption procedure remains uncertain.

This marks the second instance in which President Aleksandar Vučić has affirmed his refusal to sanction the law.

Aleksandra Gavrilović voiced that Vučić’s statement has sparked considerable bewilderment and anxiety among the LGBT+ community, intensifying concerns that they exist within a legal limbo.

“In our families, scenarios like deaths, divorces, violence, and job losses can also arise,” she stressed.

“The absence of a law safeguarding our legal security stirs apprehension about the fate of our relatives when such issues emerge,” she added.

“Labris” functions as an advocate for lesbian rights, while “Rainbow Families” is their associated group.

• What was the President of Serbia’s stance?

On August 13, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić asserted that he will not sign the law endorsing same-sex marriages or the law that would recognize a “third gender, distinct from male or female”, as long as he holds office.

Vučić communicated to TV Pink that he had implored Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić not to sign the same-sex marriage law during his presidency.

“Despite initiatives and Ana [Brnabić]’s efforts, I have requested that I refrain from endorsing same-sex marriages for the duration of my presidency,” Vučić stated.

He underscored that Serbia upholds traditional values while maintaining a welcoming stance towards the LGBT+ population.

Ana Brnabić, openly part of the LGBT+ community, has served as Serbia’s Prime Minister since 2017. However, the Law on Civil Partnerships for individuals of the same gender has yet to gain approval.

The legislative process entails government and parliamentary approval. However, the legislation cannot become effective without the President of Serbia’s signature.

The office of Prime Minister Brnabić did not respond to RFE’s request for comment on the President’s statements regarding the Law on Civil Partnerships for individuals of the same gender.

• What does the Draft Law on same-sex partnerships entail?

As per the Draft Law on Civil Partnerships for individuals of the same gender, released by the Ministry of Human and Minority Rights in March 2021, this enactment facilitates same-gender couples in registering partnerships, affording them a range of fundamental rights.

These rights encompass property division, inheritance of a partner’s estate, involvement in decision-making during illness, and the ability to visit partners in hospitals or correctional facilities.

It’s important to note that this law does not endorse marriage between individuals of the same gender, nor does it allow such partners to adopt children.

The law encountered opposition from right-wing political parties, the Serbian Orthodox Church, and a segment of public opinion.

Vučić has previously stated that he cannot sign the Law on Civil Partnerships for individuals of the same gender, if approved by the Parliament.

He made such a declaration in May 2021 during an interview with Blic newspaper, where he indicated that the Constitution refers to the Law on Family, which defines marriage as a legal union between a man and a woman.

At that time, Vučić also mentioned that his personal stance on the Law on Civil Partnerships for individuals of the same gender was demonstrated by “choosing Ana Brnabić as Prime Minister”, yet he did not claim to be a “vocal advocate” for same-sex partnerships.

However, as a member of the Council of Europe (CoE), Serbia is obligated to endorse this law.

Throughout this year, non-governmental organizations have repeatedly called for the adoption of the Law on Civil Partnerships for individuals of the same gender.