Thailand makes history as first Southeast Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage

Thailand’s senate has voted to approve a marriage equality bill, overcoming the final legislative hurdle for the country to become the first in Southeast Asia to recognise same-sex couples.

This follows two decades of activism, with proponents celebrating the move as a “monumental step forward.” The bill, supported by an overwhelming majority in the upper house, grants full legal, financial, and medical rights to marriage partners of any gender. It now awaits the endorsement of King Maha Vajiralongkorn before becoming law.

According to ‘Sky News’, the legislation will take effect 120 days after its publication in the royal gazette, potentially enabling the first same-sex weddings in Thailand later this year.

“We are very proud to make history,” said Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, a member of a parliamentary committee on same-sex marriage. “Today love triumphed over prejudice... after fighting for more than 20 years, today we can say that this country has marriage equality.”

Image Credit: Canva

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin celebrated the milestone in a post on X, stating, “Today we celebrate another significant milestone in the journey of our Equal Marriage Bill. We will continue our fight for social rights for all people regardless of their status.”

The bill passed its final reading with the approval of 130 out of the 152 senators present, with four voting against and 18 abstaining.

Once it receives royal approval, Thailand will become the third place in Asia—following Taiwan and Nepal—to permit same-sex marriage. 

Thailand, known for its popularity as a tourist destination, has a reputation for acceptance and inclusivity. However, the country largely holds conservative values, leading to decades of difficulty in passing a marriage equality law. Members of the LGBTQ+ community report facing discrimination in daily life.

The passing of the bill “would underscore Thailand's leadership in the region in promoting human rights and gender equality,” stated the Civil Society Commission of Marriage Equality, activists, and LGBTQ+ couples.

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