Bringing you breaking news from Thailand, where a historic moment has just unfolded. Thailand has officially legalized same-sex marriage, becoming the first country in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia to do so.
That’s right, the Marriage Equality Bill, which was passed by Thailand’s parliament in June 2024, came into effect today, January 23, 2025. Hundreds of LGBTQ+ couples have already lined up in Bangkok to register their marriages.
This is a monumental step for the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand and across Asia. The new law amends the Civil and Commercial Code to use gender-neutral terms, husband and wife,” with “marriage partners” and replaces “men and women” with “individuals.”
The law grants same-sex couples the same legal, financial, and medical rights as heterosexual couples. This includes adoption rights, inheritance rights, and the ability to make decisions regarding their partner’s health and medical conditions.
Related Posts
The celebrations have been incredible. There have already been mass weddings at shopping malls and public events, with couples dressed in everything from traditional Thai outfits to Western suits.
This law is seen as a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ rights in the region. Activists believe it will pave the way for other countries in Asia to follow suit.
It’s a historic day for Thailand and a significant milestone for the global LGBTQ+ community.
