For the first time in Brazil, a court has ordered the Brazillian Army to reconise a same-sex civil union.

The ruling was made by Judge Elio Siquerira, who said that the sergeant and his partner, a computer science student, were entitled to the same rights as straight couples. The benefits they will now be entitled to includes alimony and retirement benefits.

An attorney acting on behalf of the sergeant on Friday said this ruling represents “the first time a court ordered the Army to recognize a same-sex union of one its officers.”

Attorney Laurecilia de Sa Ferraz, said the couple went to the court after the army had refused to recognise their civil union.

The army told the AP that it would not yet comment on the ruling, as it has not received official notification.