The divorce debate was bad enough, but now it seems that an even bigger taboo is bubbling to the surface: same sex unions.

This is, in a sense, similar to the divorce debate because the reality around us is not reflected in our legal framework. In Malta, just like anywhere else in the world, there are people whose orientation is towards those of the same sex. And just like anywhere else, there are gay couples who opt to set up home together. This is not fiction, it is fact and it is around us. Just like there were people who had been separated for years, and living with other people and making families, there are gay people who live together as couples.

Ironically, though, it is not the parties which we can expect resistance from, but rather, the more conservative (blinkered) sections of society. Moreover, the old warhorses are again raising their heads to bellow disapproval, as evidenced once more by former Prime Minister and President Eddie Fenech Adami. While one cannot fault such great politicians for their achievements in the field, one must question their judgment in commenting on such issues. Like it or not, accept it or not, the political class must bow to the wave of liberalism and modernisation which is silently building, day by day.

The Nationalist Party seems to have learned from its massive error of judgment in the divorce issue and has acknowledged this reality. On its part, even though this publication does not agree with the LGBT marginalisation, since Joseph Muscat became leader, the PL has also adopted a position in favour. This is encouraging. Of course, one must distinguish between same-sex unions and same-sex marriages and the final vehicle must yet be seen, but this is all positive.

People of the same-sex, in a relationship, deserve to enjoy the same basic rights as heterosexual couples do. This refers to taxation, succession, contributions, benefits and legal status. The parties could have opted to have hidden behind a cohabitation stance, but although the ‘offers’ perhaps fall short of what gay people expect, it is still a significant jump in mentality. In fact, it is actually refreshing to see that both parties have come out in favour of giving people these rights, without having been pushed into it by popular or not so popular pressure.

This is all about acceptance of the realities around us. To say foresight would be an injustice, but at least, the administration and the opposition are finally taking a good look around them and allowing people to be part of mainstream society. We do not use the word ‘normal’ purposely. We call same-sex couples gay, or homosexual. We call heterosexual couples as such. First of all, there is no such thing as normal anymore and secondly, it is not for us to judge who is normal and who is not. It is all about choice and we are confident that the people of Malta will embrace such legislation in the spirit of the divorce issue. Who are we to judge, and who are we to deny responsible people the right to legalise their partnership and enjoy the rights that heterosexual couples do.