First Trio 'Married' In The Netherlands

The Netherlands and Belgium were the first countries to give full marriage rights to homosexuals. In the United States, some politicians have proposed, but not yet passed, "civil unions" that will give non-traditional couples the full benefits and responsibilities of a traditional marriage.

Meanwhile in the Netherlands, polygamy has been legalised in all but name. Recently the first civil union of three partners was registered. A 46 year-old man, Victor de Bruijn, "married" both Bianca (31) and Mirjam (35) in a ceremony before a notary who duly registered their civil union.

"I love both Bianca and Mirjam, so I am marrying them both", Victor said. He had previously been married to Bianca. Two and a half years ago they met Mirjam Geven through the internet. Eight weeks later Mirjam deserted her husband and came to live with Victor and Bianca. After Mirjam's divorce the threesome decided to marry.

Victor said "A marriage between three persons is not possible in the Netherlands, but a civil union is. We went to the notary in our marriage costume and exchanged rings. We consider this to be just an ordinary marriage".

Asked by journalists to give the secret of their peculiar relationship, Victor explained that there is no jealousy between them. "But this is because Mirjam and Bianca are bisexual. I think that with two heterosexual women it would be more difficult". Victor stressed, however, that he is "a one hundred per cent heterosexual" and that a fourth person will not be allowed into the "marriage" and they want to take their marriage obligations seriously.

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