Norway takes the lead

On its way to the USA

[Reprinted from Issues & Views February 11, 2002]

Now that the parishioners of the United Church of Christ in Denver have given their wholehearted approval to their pastor's intent to leave his wife and children, in order to "pursue a homosexual lifestyle," the stage is set for the next act--that is, marriages of public figures (other than "entertainers") of the same sex. For example, marriages of prominent politicians. Already in the lead is Norway.

We learn from the Associated Press (1/16/02) that Norway's Conservative Party Finance Minister, Per-Kristian Foss, has married his male lover Jan Erik Knarbakk--to the applause and approval of his political party, and presumably many of its constituents.

Foss married Knarbakk earlier this month, becoming the first member of a Norwegian government to enter a legally binding gay partnership. The Finance Ministry confirmed the wedding took place at the Norwegian Embassy in Sweden.

Norway prides itself on its progressiveness on gay rights. In 1993, it became the second country, after Denmark, to legally recognize homosexual unions. Now, same-sex marriages are allowed in many western European countries and in other places, including parts of Australia. In 2000, Vermont became the first--and only--U.S. state to recognize same-sex unions.

Foss' wedding is the first same-sex marriage by a European government minister noted by the International Lesbian and Gay Association. Kurt Krickler, co-chairman of the group's European chapter, said Foss' marriage was a breakthrough for tolerance by the Christian Democrats and the Conservatives.

"The most remarkable thing for people is that in (many of Europe's) Christian Democrat and Conservative parties, you could not hope to make a career if you were openly gay," he said. "I think this gives people hope."

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