1 million South Koreans hold a massive protest against gay marriage and LGBT ideology.

In a significant demonstration of opposition to LGBTQ+ rights, approximately 1 million South Koreansparticipated in a massive protest against gay marriage and what they term "LGBT ideology." This event reflects the ongoing tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ issues in South Korea, where societal attitudes and legal protections remain contentious.

Key Points:​

• Public Sentiment: The protest highlights the strong conservative sentiment in South Korea regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Despite some progress in public opinion towards acceptance, a substantial portion of the population continues to oppose same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights, often citing religious beliefs and traditional values.
• Legal Context: Currently, South Korea does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions, and there are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting individuals based on sexual orientation or gender identity. This legal landscape contributes to the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in advocating for their rights.
• Political Climate: The protests are indicative of the influence of conservative groups and religious organizations in South Korean politics. These groups have historically opposed any legislative efforts aimed at recognizing LGBTQ+ rights, often mobilizing large demonstrations to voice their dissent.
• Comparison with Public Support: While recent polls indicate a growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights among younger generations, with around 38% supporting same-sex marriage according to a 2021 Gallup Korea poll, the protests demonstrate that significant opposition remains entrenched within society.
• Impact on Legislation: The strong opposition from conservative factions has resulted in repeated failures to pass anti-discrimination bills that would protect LGBTQ+ individuals. Efforts to introduce comprehensive legislation have been met with fierce resistance, highlighting the deep divisions within South Korean society regarding these issues.

Conclusion​

The massive protest against gay marriage and LGBTQ+ ideology in South Korea underscores the ongoing struggle between progressive movements advocating for equality and conservative forces resisting change. As public opinion continues to evolve, the future of LGBTQ+ rights in South Korea will likely depend on ongoing advocacy efforts and the ability to navigate the complex political landscape influenced by cultural and religious beliefs.

 

[Akbar26]

Colombia has officially banned child marriages, marking a significant legislative milestone aimed at protecting the rights of minors. The Colombian Congress approved the new law on November 13, 2024, which establishes a minimum marriage age of 18 yearswithout exceptions, effectively ending the previous legal allowance for minors to marry with parental consent.

Key Details:​

• Legislative Background: The proposal to ban child marriage was driven by a coalition of lawmakers, including Representatives Jennifer Pedraza and Alexandra Vásquez. The initiative faced multiple challenges in previous sessions but ultimately passed in a decisive vote, reflecting a growing commitment to safeguarding children's rights in Colombia.
• Cultural Context: The law was introduced under the slogan "They're girls, not wives," emphasizing the need to protect young girls from forced marriages and exploitation. Historically, Colombia's civil code permitted individuals as young as 14 to marry with parental approval, leading to concerns about early marriages being used as a means of economic exchange or social obligation.
• Impact on Society: Advocates argue that this legislation is crucial for addressing gender inequality and preventing the negative consequences associated with child marriage, such as early pregnancy, limited educational opportunities, and increased vulnerability to domestic violence. UNICEF reports that approximately 23% of Colombian girls marry or enter unions before the age of 18.
• Next Steps: The law now awaits the signature of President Gustavo Petro, who is expected to ratify it. Once enacted, it will prohibit judges and notaries from legalizing marriages involving anyone under 18 and will include provisions for educational programs aimed at raising awareness about the rights of children and the dangers of early marriage.
• Broader Regional Context: With this new law, Colombia joins a growing number of countries in Latin America and the Caribbean that have taken steps to eliminate child marriage. This aligns with international human rights standards advocating for the protection of children and adolescents from harmful practices.

The passage of this law is seen as a historic victory for advocates of children's rights in Colombia and represents a commitment to ensuring that young individuals can pursue their education and personal development without the pressures of early marriage.