Sep 26, 2021 - World

Switzerland approves same-sex marriage referendum

Ivana Saric

Supporters pose for a picture after the first projections following a nationwide referendum on same-sex marriage in Swiss capital, Bern, on Sept. 26. Photo: Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images

A referendum to allow same-sex marriage won sweeping approval from Swiss voters in Sunday's election, AP reports.

Why it matters: Although Switzerland has allowed same-sex civil partnerships since 2007, the passage of the “Marriage for All” measure will allow these couples to enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples.

The big picture: The passage of the referendum will allow same-sex couples to adopt children, facilitate citizenship for partners who are not Swiss, and allow lesbian couples to use regulated sperm donation services, per AP.

More than 64% of voters approved the measure, AP reports.
"We are very happy and relieved," Antonia Hauswirth of the national committee Marriage for All, told Reuters.
Amnesty International hailed the outcome as a "milestone for equality."

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Switzerland approves same-sex marriage referendum

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