Governor Backs Civil Partnerships Plan
Governor Daniel Pruce has welcomed Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s indication that the Virgin Islands government is working to introduce civil partnerships to legally recognise same-sex couples. Pruce framed the move as necessary to meet constitutional and international legal obligations and urged respectful, compassionate public discussion as the work progresses.
Governor Daniel Pruce has publicly endorsed recent comments from Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley that the Government of the Virgin Islands is working toward introducing civil partnerships to provide legal recognition for same-sex couples. In a statement issued on June 22, Pruce described the proposed steps as “an important step” to ensure the territory complies with its legal and constitutional obligations while protecting the rights of all residents.
He said the matter is about upholding the Constitution and international law, and “most importantly, about respecting the rights of all, regardless of sexual orientation.” The issue has been a contentious one in the Virgin Islands for several years. In 2021 the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples in the territory were entitled to legal protections equivalent to marriage, prompting debate about how the government should provide recognition and protections while balancing constitutional requirements and public opinion.
Pruce acknowledged the strength of feeling on the topic and urged that discussions remain civil and respectful. “I am aware that this is an issue on which people hold strong and deeply felt views. However, I encourage everyone to approach this conversation with respect, compassion and an understanding that behind this issue are real people and families,” he said.
He also highlighted the Virgin Islands’ tradition of mutual respect, tolerance and the rule of law, and said no one should face discrimination or hostility because of who they are or who they love. The Governor said his office will continue to engage with the Government of the Virgin Islands as work on the matter proceeds, and that it stands ready to support timely progress to update the law so it upholds human rights and reflects constitutional protections for all.
Recent statements from the Premier indicate the government is leaning toward a civil partnership framework rather than pursuing a referendum on same-sex marriage as the mechanism for legal recognition. For BVI residents, the debate touches on both legal certainty and social values: civil partnerships would aim to create a clear statutory framework to recognise same-sex relationships and provide rights and protections under local law, while community discussion continues over how best to align that framework with public views and constitutional obligations.
The next stages are likely to include further consultations, drafting of legislation and continued dialogue between the Governor’s office and the local government as they work toward compliance with the court ruling and constitutional standards.
Primary source: BVI News