Ecuador offers parity for same-sex unions — Queer Lesbian Gay News — Gay.com

Ecuador's draft constitution, which promises "socialism for the 21st century" and expands the powers of the country's leftist president, has been approved by a majority of the National Assembly.

The constitution, the Andean nation's 20th, now goes to a national referendum Sept. 28.

Ninety-four of the 130 Assembly members backed the document sought by President Rafael Correa, the BBC reported.

Its 444 articles include a provision that same-sex unions be afforded the same rights as heterosexual marriages.

UPDATE: The new constitution was approved by voters.