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Hong Kong's top court has ordered the government to come up with a framework for same sex unions within two years

By Derek Cai and Martin Yip

in Singapore and Hong Kong

Hong Kong's top court has refused to recognise same-sex marriages, but ordered the city to formulate an alternative framework within two years.

It is a partial victory for an appeal by pro-democracy activist Jimmy Sham, who had sought official recognition of his marriage to his husband.

The Court of Final Appeal rejected this but also said the city had failed to actively provide alternative options.

Despite legal challenges, same-sex marriages are not currently allowed.

While LGBT advocates have over the years won small victories, there is only limited recognition of same-sex unions legalised outside the territory, in matters regarding taxation and spousal visas for foreign residents.

But Tuesday's ruling said that the government's failure to actively provide alternative options - like civil unions - for LGBT couples violates their rights.