Thailand to be first Southeast Asian country to recognise same-sex marriage  | Reuters

Thailand’s long-awaited journey towards marriage equality took a significant step forward on June 18, 2024, as the Senate overwhelmingly endorsed the same-sex marriage bill. This vote positions Thailand to become the first Southeast Asian nation to legalize same-sex marriage, following Taiwan and Nepal in Asia.

The bill, which amends Thailand’s civil and commercial code, redefines marriage as a union between two consenting adults over the age of 18. This removes any gender-specific language, paving the way for same-sex couples to enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples in marriage. These rights include inheritance, healthcare decision-making, and potentially adoption.

The vote marks a culmination of over two decades of activism by LGBTQ rights groups in Thailand. Despite the country’s reputation for LGBTQ inclusivity, existing laws failed to recognize same-sex unions, leaving couples in legal limbo.

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While the bill has garnered significant public support, it still requires King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s royal assent and publication in the Royal Gazette before officially becoming law. This process typically takes around 120 days, suggesting that the first same-sex weddings could be officiated as early as October 2024.

While this is a historic victory for LGBTQ rights in Thailand, some concerns remain. The current legislation doesn’t address the rights of transgender and non-binary individuals who may still face challenges in changing their legal gender identity.

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Despite these limitations, Thailand’s progress towards marriage equality is a significant milestone for LGBTQ rights in Asia. It sets a powerful precedent for regional acceptance and paves the way for a more inclusive future for Thailand’s LGBTQ community.