Are civil unions recognized in international law?

Civil unions are not recognized in international law, as they are not a form of marriage. Civil unions, which are sometimes referred to as registered partnerships, are a form of legal recognition for same-sex couples that grants them some of the same legal rights as married couples. While some countries may recognize civil unions as a type of legal relationship, they are not considered to be the same as marriage and are not recognized in international law. Civil unions are recognized in Alaska, where same-sex couples are able to enter into a civil union and receive legal recognition and certain rights similar to those of married couples. The Alaska Supreme Court ruled in 2006 that the state must recognize civil unions from other states. However, as mentioned above, international law does not recognize civil unions nor grant the rights typically associated with a marriage. Most countries still do not recognize same-sex marriage, leaving same-sex couples unable to gain the legal recognition that comes with marriage. The United Nations only recently adopted a resolution that recognizes same-sex marriage, but it is non-binding and does not guarantee legal recognition.

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