Story perspectives

Constitutional Court Empowers Wives: Husbands Can Adopt Surnames

9/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

South Africa's Constitutional Court ruled that husbands can adopt their wives' surnames, deeming the previous law unconstitutional.
This decision addresses gender discrimination in the Births and Deaths Registration Act, which restricted men's surname options.
The court suspended the ruling for 24 months, giving Parliament time to amend the law.
The ruling marks a significant advancement in gender equality within marriage.
Reactions on social media varied, with mixed support and opposition.

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Story summary

South Africa's Constitutional Court ruled that husbands can adopt their wives' surnames, deeming the previous law unconstitutional.
This decision addresses gender discrimination in the Births and Deaths Registration Act, which restricted men's surname options.
The court suspended the ruling for 24 months, giving Parliament time to amend the law.
The ruling marks a significant advancement in gender equality within marriage.
Reactions on social media varied, with mixed support and opposition.