Thailand’s Senate has passed a landmark marriage equality law, making it the first country in Southeast Asia to recognize same-sex marriage. The bill received overwhelming support from lawmakers in the upper house.
The law will come into force 120 days after it is published in the royal gazette, paving the way for the first same-sex weddings to take place later this year.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin celebrated the milestone on social media, vowing to continue fighting for social rights for all. LGBT advocates hailed the move as a “monumental step forward,” noting that Thailand will be the third country in Asia to enact marriage equality legislation, after Nepal and Taiwan.
Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, a member of a parliamentary committee on same-sex marriage, expressed pride in making history after a 20-year fight. Lawmakers and activists celebrated in parliament, waving rainbow flags and smiling, with some raising their fists in solidarity with the LGBT community.
In Chiang Mai province, human rights activist Matcha Phornin and her family watched the senate proceedings on TV, cheering and hugging each other when the bill passed. Matcha expressed relief and joy, knowing that their family is now protected by law, and their adopted daughter will be legally recognized.
Thailand is already known for its vibrant LGBT culture and tolerance, and this move underscores its leadership in promoting human rights and gender equality in the region. The passage of the law is a significant victory for LGBT activists who have been fighting for more than two decades to secure marriage equality rights in Thailand.
