Recognition of same-sex unions in Paraguay

Article 51(2) of the Constitution states:[3] A de facto union between a man and a woman, having no legal impediments to getting married and being characterized by stability and monogamy, produces a similar effect to that of a legal marriage, in accordance with the provisions established by law.In August 2011, Itaipu Binacional, the company operating the Itaipu Dam, decided to recognize the same-sex partners of employees for the purpose of private health insurance benefits, if the couples had been together for at least six months.

"[9][10] In March 2019, with 24 votes in favor, the Senate of Paraguay approved a draft declaration stating that it was "pro-life and pro-family", expressing opposition to same-sex marriage and abortion.

[15][16][17] Media has reported other couples who had married abroad in Argentina, Costa Rica or Spain being denied recognition in Paraguay, including the ability of a foreign partner to obtain a residence permit.

[18] In September 2023, a same-sex couple, Beto Leiva and Felipe Rojas, held a symbolic marriage ceremony at the Alta Gracia Parque Hotel in Caacupé.

(..) To ensure the protection of all the rights of families formed by same-sex couples, without discrimination with respect to those that are constituted by heterosexual couples.Paraguay ratified the Convention on 24 August 1989 and recognized the court's jurisdiction on 11 March 1993.

[26] On 12 January 2018, SOMOSGAY announced its intention to file a petition with the Supreme Court of Justice to legalize same-sex marriage in Paraguay,[27] citing the IACHR opinion.