Chile

Chile's conservative president Sebastian Pinera [pic] recently proposed civil unions legislation that would give gay and lesbian partners many of the rights now offered to married couples in the South American nation. Pinera, fulfilling a campaign promise with the civil union bill, insists the initiative doesn't change the concept of marriage in Chile. But said all couples "deserve respect, dignity and the support of state," in a speech at the presidential palace that was followed by prolonged applause.