WAS Statement: Co-Adoption of Children by Same Sex Couples
- WAS Digital
- Aug 1, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 24
PRESS RELEASE
[London, United Kingdom] – The World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) affirms its unwavering support for the right of same-sex couples to co-adopt children, emphasising that legal recognition of family rights must apply equally to all, regardless of sexual orientation. In jurisdictions where joint adoption is permitted for married couples, excluding same-sex couples from this right constitutes unjust and discriminatory treatment.
Grounded in the principles of equality outlined in the WAS Declaration of Sexual Rights and the “Sexual Health for the Millennium” declaration, WAS asserts that no credible scientific evidence supports restrictions on parenting based on sexual orientation. WAS calls on lawmakers and governments to uphold inclusive adoption policies that protect the best interests of children and affirm the rights and dignity of diverse families.
____________________________
2024
With spreading legal recognition of same-sex couples, issues relating to adopting children have been increasingly discussed. In countries where laws allow the joint or co-adoption of children by married couples, the issue centers on whether these laws extend to same-sex couples.
The World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) has laid out clear statements regarding support for the equality of rights regardless of sexual orientation in the document: Sexual Health for the Millennium. A Declaration and Technical Document (2008); as well as in the WAS Declaration of Sexual Rights (1999).
This position extends to issue of co-adoption of children by same-sex couples. If a law permits two people to jointly adopt a child, the genders or sexual orientations of those two people should not affect the rights to equal treatment under the law. Laws that explicitly prohibit or restrict co-adoption based on gender or sexual orientation should be considered as discriminatory.
Furthermore, no credible scientific evidence has been presented that demonstrates that same-sex couples are less able to provide necessary environments and appropriate parenting than heterosexual couples. Likewise, no credible evidence exists to suggest that sexual orientation is in any way associated with parenting skills.
The World Association for Sexual Health fully supports the ability of same-sex couples to co-adopt children under the same conditions as heterosexual couples.
____________________________
About WAS
WAS promotes sexual health throughout the lifespan and through the world by developing, promoting and supporting sexology and sexual rights for all. WAS accomplishes this by advocacy actions, networking, facilitating the exchange of information, ideas and experiences and advancing scientifically based sexuality research, sexuality education and clinical sexology, with a multi and trans-disciplinary approach. WAS represents over 100 sexological and sexual health organisations around the world.
____________________________
Media Queries
Contact Lisa Welsh, our Communications Lead.
The difference between sex and love is a topic that resonates deeply, as many of us struggle to navigate the emotional and physical boundaries. Part of embracing that understanding is how we express intimacy—and feeling confident in what we wear can play a subtle but meaningful role. For those exploring lingerie that honors autonomy, aesthetics, and respect, spicylingerie offers an option grounded in choice and care.