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Recognition of same-sex unions in Vanuatu
The legal status and history of marriage equality for same-sex couples in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu.
Vanuatu does not allow same-sex marriage or civil partnerships. The government amended the Marriage Act in November 2024 to explicitly ban these unions. Religious leaders and societal attitudes generally oppose such recognition.
Same-sex couples cannot marry or form civil unions in Vanuatu. The law treats all marriages as between a man and a woman. Religious groups largely oppose LGBTQ+ relationships. Society holds traditional views that do not support these unions. Legal efforts have failed to change this stance.
Legal background
Past laws banned private acts between men but were removed in 2007. New Zealand changed its rules in 2013, which sparked debate in Vanuatu. Officials warned pastors against performing such ceremonies. Rumors of a resort wedding triggered investigations. Leaders cited Christian values and the constitution. They threatened to revoke licenses for violators.
Law changes
A commission reviewed the issue in 2014. They noted neighboring countries were moving forward. However, they feared religious backlash. By 2015, they recommended an explicit ban. Parliament passed the amendment in November 2024. The president signed it into law. Pastors must follow the new rules strictly.
Cultural context
Western-style same-sex weddings are unknown locally. Some Polynesian outlier islands recognize third genders. These roles exist in Emae, Mele, Ifira, Futuna and Aniwa. Similar roles appear in Samoa and Tonga. People with these identities often marry women. This creates unique family structures in those communities.
Religious stance
Major churches oppose same-sex unions. The Presbyterian Church condemned rumors early on. The Anglican Church refuses to bless them. They left the global communion over recent changes. The Latter-day Saints annulled a secret ceremony. The Catholic Church opposes the practice entirely.
When and where
This custom applies across Vanuatu. It is strongest in Port Vila where legal decisions happen. Neighboring nations like Australia and New Zealand influence local debates. Cultural outliers show different gender traditions.
What Recognition of same-sex unions in Vanuatu means
The ban reflects deep religious convictions. Leaders view the constitution as protecting traditional values. Christians believe marriage belongs to one man and one woman. The law aims to preserve Melanesian heritage. Opposition stems from fear of moral decline.
Who takes part
- Parliament: Amends the Marriage Act to ban same-sex unions
- President: Signs the amendment into official law
- Pastors: Refuse to officiate or face license revocation
- Church leaders: Issue statements opposing LGBTQ+ recognition
Then and now
The law remains strict as of 2026. No legal recognition exists for same-sex couples. Public opinion stays negative toward homosexuality. Reform efforts have stalled due to religious pressure. The ban ensures no future ceremonies can be registered.
Questions people ask about Recognition of same-sex unions in Vanuatu
Is same-sex marriage legal in Vanuatu?
No. Same-sex marriage is illegal. The government banned it through amendments to the Marriage Act in November 2024. Civil unions are also not recognized. Couples cannot register their relationship legally.
What did the 2024 law change?
The law explicitly forbids same-sex marriages. It requires pastors to follow the ban strictly. Licenses can be revoked for violations. The president signed the bill into effect. It aligns with religious and cultural norms.
How do churches view these unions?
Major churches oppose them strongly. The Presbyterian and Anglican churches refuse blessings. The Catholic Church prohibits officiation. Some groups even left global communiions over related debates. They cite traditional values and scripture.
See also
Recognition of same-sex unions in ItalyThe legal framework that grants same-sex couples rights and protections in Italy.Unregistered cohabitation in IsraelLegal recognition for same-sex couples living together without a formal religious or civil wedding ceremony.Polygamy in UzbekistanThe practice of men taking multiple wives in a country where the law strictly forbids it.Recognition of same-sex unions in FijiThe legal status and social context of same-sex marriage and civil unions in Fiji.Good reading and sources
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Recognition of same-sex unions in Vanuatu", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryShaadi rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-05.
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