On Wednesday 11 May 2016 in the birthplace of western civilisation, Italy legalises same-sex civil unions. The legislation passed recognises same-sex couples partnerships in a legal capacity, granting them security and protections that have previously only been afforded to opposite-sex couples.

This bill was pushed through by the Italian government on a vote of confidence to expedite the process which has been sought after by LGBT activists in Italy for over thirty years. Below is a video of rallies held three months ago to spur on same-sex marriage.

Strongly opposed by the Catholic Church and more conservative Italian citizens, this legislation affected by the Italian government is already being challenged. The Northern League leader Matteo Salvini is calling on the legislation to be rescinded.

Now that Italy has amended its legal recognition of same-sex unions, it would serve as a huge blow to the equal rights campaign if the leader is successful in repealing the legislation that would represent a substantial set back for LGBT members of the Italian community.

The move made by members of the Italian parliament was celebrated on the streets of Rome by Italian LGBT rights activists, while the parliamentary affairs minister showed her support by donning a rainbow pin badge.

The legislation is due to be enacted by July if everything goes without complication, or November at the latest.