Finland allows gay couples to adopt partner’s children
The Finnish parliament today voted to allow gay couples in registered partnerships to adopt the biological children of their partners.
The bill passed by an 108-29 vote with 61 members of parliament absent. One legislator abstained.
Under the law, children would be eligible for alimony and gain the right to inherit the estate of non-biological parents.
In the case of separation, the non-biological parent would also qualify for visitation rights.
A four-party coalition is currently in power in the country, with some members opposing the measure.
Earlier this week, a member of the opposition True Finns Party, Pentti Oinoen, caused controversy when he suggested that pet owners may demand the right to marry their pet dogs. Oinoen later said he had not intended to cause offence.
Registered partnerships were created for gay couples in 2002.
