Costa Rica has become the first country in Central America to legalize same-sex marriage and the 28th UN state to recognize such unions.

'Costa Rica celebrates today!  Marriage equality has become a reality in the country - the first in Central America!  We rejoice with you: congratulations to all those who worked so hard to make this happen! '', Wrote the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) in a message posted on Twitter.

 The Constitutional Court of Costa Rica ruled in August 2018 that the ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional and gave Parliament 18 months to legalize these unions, otherwise the provision would have automatically become null and void.

 "This change will bring a significant social and cultural transformation of the country," said President Carlos Alvarado Quesada.