Thailand approves same-sex marriage

With a historic legislative decision on Tuesday that supporters hailed as a "victory," Thailand became the first nation in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex unions.

The Senate's upper chamber approved the revisions to the marriage law that permit same-sex couples to get married by a vote of 130 in favour, 4 against, and 18 abstentions.

After being published in the official Royal Gazette for 120 days, the new law will now be delivered to King Maha Vajiralongkorn for royal assent.

After Taiwan and Nepal, Thailand will only be the third country in Asia to allow same-sex marriages. Advocates hope that October will mark the first anniversary of these marriages.

We are incredibly proud of everyone who contributed to this momentous occasion. Following the vote, senators were addressed by LGBTQ activist and member of the committee that examined the legislation Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd.
"Today, prejudice is defeated by love."

An MP for the progressive Move Forward Party named Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat declared the amended legislation to be “a victory for the people” before to the vote.

The new law substitutes gender-neutral terminology for references to "men," "women," "husbands," and "wives" in marriage statutes.

In terms of adoption and inheritance, it grants same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexual couples.

"I would like to be able to legally adopt my partner's boy as my own child and to have a say about his well-being. This bill will allow it,” Kevin Pehthai Thanomkhet, 30, told AFP.
For celebrations later, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who has been outspoken in his support of the LGBTQ community and the bill, will welcome activists and supporters inside his official residence.

In addition, activists organise a drag show at an evening rally in central Bangkok, where enormous shopping centres have been flying rainbow flags since June 1st as a sign of support for Pride Month.

Thailand has long been known for its acceptance of the LGBTQ population, and local media outlets have reported on opinion polls that reveal a resounding public endorsement of equal marriage.

Since the Netherlands became the first country to celebrate same-sex partnerships in 2001, more than 30 countries have legalised marriage for everybody.

However, only Taiwan and Nepal acknowledge marital equality in Asia. India got as near as possible in October, but the Supreme Court sent the ruling back to the legislature.

Participating in the Pride march in Bangkok early in June, Chotika Hlengpeng expressed her happiness at the progress made. The march drew thousands of enthusiasts.

The outcome of years of agitation and failed attempts to pass laws pertaining to equal marriage is Tuesday's vote.

Much of Thailand, which is majority Buddhist, nevertheless adheres to traditional and conservative beliefs, even if the move is well-liked.

Despite their widespread visibility, LGBTQ people claim they still encounter prejudice and obstacles in their daily lives.

Since transgender and non-binary persons would still not be able to change their gender on official identity documents, several activists have condemned the new regulations for neglecting to recognise these groups of people.

AFP