Authorities in Hong Kong are exploring administrative measures to safeguard the rights of same-sex couples following the Legislative Council's rejection of a bill aimed at recognizing such partnerships, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has announced.

The Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill, which would have granted limited rights to same-sex couples in line with a 2023 court ruling, was vetoed last week, marking the first government bill to fail since Beijing's 2021 electoral overhaul ensuring only "patriots" govern. Lee emphasized that the defeat showed the legislature is not a "rubber stamp," countering claims of diminished autonomy.

Speaking before an Executive Council meeting, Lee acknowledged the contentious nature of same-sex partnerships but reaffirmed that Hong Kong’s Basic Law recognizes only heterosexual marriage, a stance he said remains unchanged. The proposed administrative steps aim to address some rights for same-sex couples without altering this legal framework, though specifics were not disclosed.

The bill’s failure has sparked debate, with advocates arguing it was a missed opportunity to align with global trends, while opponents cite cultural and legal constraints. The move toward administrative solutions reflects an effort to balance court mandates with societal divisions, as Hong Kong navigates its evolving political landscape.