UNITED NATIONS (Sputnik) – Last summer, Ban stated that the organization would recognize same sex marriages of its members of staff, which would allow them to receive UN family benefits, according to media. As long as the couple got married in a state where same-sex marriage is legal, regardless of their nationality. Before the Secretary General's decision, the status of the members was determined by the laws of their country.
Speaking against the draft prior to the vote were the United States, the European Union and others. Among those speaking in favor were Belarus, China and Saudi Arabia.
Russia wanted to overturn Ban's decision and return to the previous method of regulating this issue.
The United Nations provides benefits for family members, such as spouses and children, of its staff.
