Slovenian gay
rights group unhappy with new couples registration law

A Slovenian gay rights group on Wednesday blasted a new law recognizing same-sex relationships, saying it is discriminatory because it gives gays far fewer rights than those enjoyed by heterosexual couples. Mitja Blazic, head of the Society for Integration of Homosexuals, said gay couples are now granted "minimal rights" and warned gays to "seriously reconsider" exercising those rights at all. Lawmakers last week adopted the government-proposed law recognizing same-sex partnerships, though not as official marriages. It entitles partners to the same rights as a family member if their partner is hospitalized. However, it does not entitle them to inherit their partner's property. While the law is progressive for the predominantly Roman Catholic country of 2 million, ruled by a center-right coalition, the opposition parties and gay rights groups insist it fell short of granting gay couples enough rights. The contentious issue triggered a fierce debate in parliament, with some right-wing deputies speaking against gays. Blazic protested against "hate speech" used in the chamber, because it leads to "hate speech on the streets." The group will hold a gay pride parade on Saturday under the motto "Registration is discrimination." (AP)