Civil union

A civil union is one of several terms for a civil status similar to marriage, typically created for the purposes of allowing same-sex couples access to the benefits enjoyed by married opposite-sex couples (see also same-sex marriage); it can also be used by opposite-sex couples who do not prefer to enter into the legal institution of marriage but who would rather be in a union more similar to a common-law marriage.

Switzerland

On September 22, 2002, voters in the canton of Zürich voted to extend a number of marriage rights to same-sex partners, including tax, inheritance, and social security benefits. Partners must both live in the canton and formally commit themselves six months in advance to running a household and supporting and aiding one another.

Related Topics:
September 22 - 2002 - Zürich

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External link: PlanetOut News story

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On June 5, 2005 voters extended this right to the whole of Switzerland, through a federal referendum. This was the first time that the population of a whole country affirmed civil union laws.

Related Topics:
June 5 - 2005

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