1. The Swiss government has made certain amendments in a bill that allows same-sex couples to marry in a country lagging behind much of Europe on gay rights.
2. Agreement on the wording of the bill paves the way for gays and lesbians to marry and for lesbians to access sperm donations, although it is likely to go to a popular vote before being turned into law.
3. Switzerland is one of the few European countries where same-sex marriage is not legal.
4. The country allows same-sex couples to enter into “registered partnerships”, but this does not provide the same rights as to marriage, including for obtaining citizenship and the joint adoption of children.
5. Liberal political parties of the country have termed the agreement as “historic”.
