29 May 2011

Malta Votes to Legalize Divorce

The Times of Malta has reported the results of a national referendum on the issue of divorce. With 72% voter turn out in this staunchly Catholic country, the pro-divorce Divorce Movement (slogan: "Give Love a Second Chance") has prevailed over the Nationalist Party government (slogan: "Jesus Yes, Divorce No") with 52% of the popular vote. Prime Minister Gonzi has said that the results would be respected and government will introduce legislation to enable divorce.

Malta is the last European nation to legalize divorce. Yay, Malta! You can find a bit of information on the origins of the Commonwealth laws on divorce in my post "Polygamy: The Legal Background."