Thailand Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage, Becoming First in Southeast Asia

Thailand's Senate has approved a bill to legalize same-sex marriage, making it the first country in Southeast Asia to enact such a law.

Thailand has become the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, after the Senate approved a bill on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The legislation, which amends the country's Civil and Commercial Code, replaces gender-specific terms with gender-neutral ones, granting full legal, financial, and medical rights to marriage partners of any gender.

The vote, which cleared the final legislative hurdle for the bill, was overwhelmingly in favor, with 130 of the 152 members in attendance approving it. Only 4 voted against it, and 18 abstained. The bill now requires the endorsement of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and its publication in the Government Gazette, after which it will become effective within 120 days.

Thailand Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage, Becoming First in Southeast Asia

The timing of the Senate's vote, on the first day of the current parliamentary session, signaled the urgency in getting the bill passed. The government hosted a celebration at Government House, adorned with rainbow carpets, flags, and a giant heart-shaped balloon. Politicians, celebrities, diplomats, and activists from the LGBTQ+ community joined in the festivities, riding in a colorful parade of floats from Parliament after the vote.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who could not attend due to a positive COVID-19 test, expressed his congratulations on social media, calling it "a triumph for justice and human rights."

Thailand Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage, Becoming First in Southeast Asia

Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn of the human rights organization Fortify Rights emphasized that the government must now prioritize the swift and effective implementation of the law to safeguard LGBTI+ rights.

Thailand has a reputation for acceptance and inclusivity, but the struggle to pass a marriage equality law has spanned decades. Thai society largely holds conservative values, and members of the LGBTQ community have reported facing discrimination in everyday life.

However, the passage of the bill reflects the growing acceptance of diversity in Thai society. The government's support for the legislation and its participation in the annual Bangkok Pride parade earlier this month are indicative of a shift in attitudes.

The legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand is a historic milestone, marking a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the region. It is a testament to the power of activism and the growing acceptance of diversity and inclusion in Thai society.