Thailand has become the first country in Southeast Asia and the third place in Asia to recognize same-sex marriage, as the landmark marriage equality bill has been endorsed by the monarchy. The bill, approved by legislators earlier this year, will take effect in 120 days, allowing LGBTQ+ couples to register their marriages starting Jan. 22, 2025. The law amends the country’s Civil and Commercial Code to use gender-neutral words and grants married couples full legal, financial, and medical rights regardless of gender.
Thailand, known for its tolerance and vibrant LGBTQ+ social scene, also has conservative social values that made passing the law a yearslong struggle for activists. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra congratulated everyone’s love and celebrated with the hashtag #LoveWins.
Taiwan was the first place in Asia to allow same-sex marriage in 2019, followed by Nepal last year. Additionally, Taiwan recently announced that Taiwanese-Chinese couples are now legally able to register their cross-strait marriages on the island. Thailand’s recognition of same-sex marriage is a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the region and reflects the country’s continued progress towards greater equality and inclusivity.
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