Italian Senate Passes Bill Recognizing Same-sex Civil Unions

Italy has taken a step towards joining its neighbors in western Europe by passing a civil unions bill that would afford legal recognition to same-sex couples for the first time.

Despite efforts to derail the legislation from the Roman Catholic church and last-minute political maneuvering by opponents of the Italian prime minister, Matteo Renzi, the Senate approved the legislation.

In depth analysis can be found here.