In a momentous step for LGBTQ+ rights, Thailand has passed a marriage equality law allowing same-sex couples to legally wed, making it the third country in Asia to do so.
In a momentous step for LGBTQ+ rights, Thailand has officially passed a marriage equality law, permitting same-sex couples to legally wed. The landmark legislation was published in the Royal Gazette following affirmation by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, ushering it into effect in 120 days. The new law means that LGBTQ+ couples will be able to register their marriages beginning in January next year, making Thailand the third place in Asia, following Taiwan and Nepal, to legalise same-sex marriage.
The comprehensive bill, which secures full legal, financial, and medical rights for marriage partners of any gender, garnered robust approval from both the House of Representatives and the Senate earlier this year. It passed the House in April and received Senate approval in June.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed celebratory sentiments on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, writing, “Congratulations to everyone’s love,” accompanied by the hashtag #LoveWins.
Though Thailand is often seen as a bastion of acceptance and inclusivity within the region, it has faced extended challenges in achieving this significant legislative milestone. Despite the country’s progressive image, Thai society generally holds conservative values, and the LGBTQ+ community has reported experiencing discrimination in daily life. Historically, the government and state institutions have also been primarily conservative, posing an additional challenge for advocates of gender equality who campaigned for many years to bring about this transformation.
Bangkok Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon has reassured that city officials will be prepared to process same-sex marriage registrations as soon as the law is enacted. The legislation involves amendments to the Civil and Commercial Code, replacing gender-specific terminology such as “men and women” with gender-neutral terms like “individual.”
Under the leadership of the Pheu Thai party, the current government has prioritised marriage equality, aligning itself closely with significant LGBTQ+ events and advocacy efforts. A notable display of this commitment was seen during the annual Bangkok Pride parade in June, which saw thousands of people celebrating in one of the city’s major commercial areas.
Following the passage of the law, organisers of Bangkok Pride announced via Facebook their plans to host a collective wedding for couples eager to register their marriages on the law’s first effective day.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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