Vietnam Votes To Legalize Gay Weddings But Not Gay Marriage

While not necessarily legalizing gay marriage, Vietnam made an important step towards marriage equality this week -- decriminalizing gay wedding ceremonies and giving same-sex couples the right to live together.

While the unions between same-sex partners won't be recognized as legal marriages, gay rights activists reportedly believe that this move is a step on the path towards full equality for gays and lesbians.

Vietnam held its first Pride parade in August 2012. According to GayStarNews, activists believe the next step towards marriage equality in Vietnam will be to equalize the age at which men and woman can get married, currently institutionalized at 20 for boys and 18 for girls.