Thailand set to become Southeast Asia's first country to legalize same-sex marriage
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On March 7, Thailand marked a historic step towards potential marriage equality as a parliamentary committee approved a draft amendment to the country's Civil and Commercial Code. If enacted, this amendment would redefine marriage, recognizing it as a union between "two individuals" instead of the traditional "man and woman" partnership.
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This momentous decision positions Thailand as a trailblazer in Southeast Asia, on the brink of legalizing same-sex marriage and granting LGBTQ+ couples equal marital rights. The bill is slated for further deliberation in the elected House of Representatives on March 27, where it will undergo the second and third readings.
Following potential approval in the House of Representatives, the bill would then need to garner support from the Senate and obtain a royal endorsement. The legislative process is anticipated to culminate by the end of 2024, signifying a groundbreaking moment for LGBTQ+ rights in the region.
Mr. Thanyawat Kamolwotngwat, Second Vice President, expressed his enthusiasm for the progress made towards equal marriage rights, underscoring the collaborative effort from various sectors. He emphasized the significance of this development as an inclusive agenda that unites political parties and the public alike.
“As a representative and someone who works for the people, I am honored to drive the struggle of the people. and the work of every party, whether it be every political party It is considered an important agenda, an agenda that everyone can plant together, and the House of Representatives will enact the equal marriage law as soon as possible.”
This proposed legislation stands to revolutionize LGBTQ+ rights within Thailand, providing same-sex couples, aged 18 and above, with equal rights and legal protections akin to heterosexual couples. These rights encompass crucial aspects such as inheritance, tax benefits, and the option of child adoption, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, a proponent of the government's draft bill, spoke of the bill's core objective of extending marriage rights to individuals "regardless of gender." Citing overwhelming public support—evidenced by a recent survey indicating over 96% backing for the legalization of same-sex marriage—Thepsuthin highlighted the widespread societal endorsement for this progressive legislative move.
Thailand's potential enactment of this bill would signify a significant leap forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the region. By embracing marriage equality and extending fundamental rights to all individuals, irrespective of sexual orientation, Thailand is poised to emerge as a beacon of inclusivity and progress within Southeast Asia.
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