Netherlands-Same-Sex Marriage

FILE -Helene Faasen, left, and Anne-Marie Thus, who were among four couples to get married under the world's first law allowing same-sex marriages with equal rights. arrive at Amsterdam's City Hall early April 1, 2001.

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Amsterdam celebrates 25 years since the world's first same-sex weddings

Amsterdam celebrates 25 years since the world's first same-sex weddings

Amsterdam is marking 25 years since the world's first gay marriages were celebrated in the Netherlands. Three couples married at City Hall on Wednesday just after midnight, led in a ceremony by Mayor Femke Halsema. More than 40 countries now allow same-sex marriages. Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, who is gay, says the milestone inspired him as a teenager. The LGBTQ movement is facing challenges elsewhere. Advocates cite new efforts in some U.S. states to challenge marriage equality and rising hostility toward LGBTQ+ people in parts of Africa.