Same-sex unions are legal or religious unions between two persons of the same sex. In legal contexts, their recognition varies based upon the region in which the union is formed. Some regions allow same-sex marriage, civil marriage between two persons of the same sex. Others recognize civil unions or civil partnerships, a status equivalent or identical to marriage for same-sex couples. In the United States, however, state civil unions do not confer the federal benefits of marriage, and in some places, such as France, civil unions are also open to opposite-sex couples (Pacte civil de solidarité).