It is the first country in Southeast Asia to recognize same-sex marriage. Law came into effect this Thursday.
Hundreds of same-sex couples are getting married this Thursday, January 23, in Thailand, the day that the law that recognizes LGBTQI+ marriage comes into force in the country - which thus becomes the first in Southeast Asia to take this step.
The landmark bill was passed by the Thai parliament in June last year, with 130 votes in favor and just four against. It was then promulgated by the King, Maha Vajiralongkorn.
According to international media, in central Bangkok alone, 300 couples signed up to get married in a mass ceremony that took place today in a local shopping mall, an event organized with Bangkok Pride and local authorities.
The new rule grants LGBTQIA+ couples the same legal rights and recognition as heterosexual couples, including issues related to inheritance, adopting children and making healthcare decisions.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra celebrated the passing of the law last week, where in front of several gay couples she said: “It’s like a dream, but it’s not a dream. Congratulations to everyone. This shows that Thailand is ready to embrace diversity and accept love in all forms. It shows that our country is open and receptive.”
To prepare members of the government and public services, which have historically been conservative, several training sessions were provided, including lectures, to raise awareness about gender and sexual orientation diversity.
With the new regulation, Thailand becomes the third country in Asia to allow gay marriage, after Taiwan in 2019 and Nepal in 2023.
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