noun
civil union
A legally recognized relationship similar to marriage, often used for same-sex couples. The term is a direct loanword and is used in legal and social contexts in Japan.
一部の国では、同性カップルにシビルユニオンが認められている。
In some countries, civil unions are recognized for same-sex couples.
シビルユニオン制度の導入について議論が続いている。
Debate continues over the introduction of a civil union system.
パートナーシップ制度 (partnership system) is a more general term often used in Japanese municipalities for similar legal recognitions, whereas シビルユニオン is the direct English loanword used in international contexts.
Direct loanword from English 'civil union', adopted into Japanese with katakana spelling.