BRUSSELS, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- European Union member states object to a plan to deal with divorces when couples are from different countries or are living outside their country.
Under the plan, named Rome III, the law that would apply would be that of the country of residence -- or of the country that the couple has the strongest ties to, the EU Observer reported. Backers say the proposal would limit the practice of people shopping for the most favorable jurisdiction.
But the plan, if it is adopted, might require European courts to follow the laws of countries like Iran.
Even European countries have markedly different laws on divorce. Ending a marriage is a simple process in Sweden, while divorce remains illegal in Malta.
Some foreign ministers also argue that laws on marriage and the family should be a national prerogative.
