Scottish Green activists have proposed that schools should teach pupils about relationships involving multiple partners, including polyamory, and that such relationships should be given legal recognition. The motion, to be debated at the Scottish Greens’ autumn conference in Inverness, suggests that sex education should not prioritize specific relationship structures and should instead cover a variety of sexual identities, such as 'throuples.'
The proposal, put forward by the party's Greens of Colour group, argues that all relationship structures should be recognized and reflected in educational curricula. The group claims that polyamorous relationships are increasing in Scotland but lack legal standing, which can hinder partners' ability to visit each other in hospitals or be recognized on official documents. They also contend that state benefits should accommodate relationships involving multiple partners.
This stance has drawn sharp criticism from political opponents. Rachael Hamilton, deputy leader of the Scottish Conservatives, described the activists as 'completely detached from reality' and accused them of having 'priorities utterly wrong' amid pressing issues like the cost of living and public services. Reform UK MSP Max Bannerman characterized the motion as a 'desperate attempt by the Left to outdo itself in the race to be simultaneously the most extreme and the most detached party in politics.'
Ross Greer, a co-leader of the Scottish Greens, acknowledged that the party operates as a democracy where members can submit motions for debate. The party also faces scrutiny for other proposals, including replacing the council tax with a charge based on house prices and introducing a 'frequent flyer levy' on business travel, with funds earmarked for reducing public transport costs.