Same-sex marriage legalised in Argentina

Argentina today legalised same-sex marriage, becoming the first in Latin America to give gays and lesbians all the legal rights of heterosexual couples.

The vote came down to 33 in favour, 27 against and three abstentions in Argentina's Senate.

Since the lower house already approved it, and President Cristina Fernandez is a strong supporter, it now becomes law.

The vote came after a marathon debate and marches by supporters and opponents that drew thousands of people.

It also comes despite a strong campaign against it by the Roman Catholic Church.