A civil partnership is a legally recognized relationship between two individuals, providing them with similar rights and responsibilities as marriage. It was initially created to offer legal recognition to same-sex couples, allowing them to formalize their commitment and access legal benefits such as inheritance, tax advantages, and healthcare decisions. Civil partnerships can be dissolved through a legal process similar to divorce. While the specifics can vary by country, they generally require a formal registration and may involve a ceremony. This arrangement is distinct from marriage but serves a similar purpose in recognizing and supporting committed relationships.