Thailand Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage, Set to Begin in January 2025
By Okafor Joseph Afam
September 25, 2024
Thailand has officially legalized same-sex marriage following the endorsement of a landmark bill by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, marking a historic moment for LGBTQ+ rights in the country. The new law, published in the Royal Gazette on Tuesday, will take effect in 120 days, allowing LGBTQ+ couples to legally wed starting in January 2025. With this move, Thailand becomes the third Asian country to embrace marriage equality, following Taiwan and Nepal, according to the Associated Press.
The legislation grants full legal, financial, and medical rights to married partners, regardless of gender, and was passed smoothly by both the House of Representatives and the Senate earlier this year. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra voiced his support, celebrating the development with the statement, “Congratulations to everyone’s love,” and using the hashtag #LoveWins.
While Thailand has long been considered an LGBTQ+-friendly destination, the journey toward marriage equality faced challenges. Conservative values within Thai society and government institutions had delayed the legal recognition of same-sex unions for decades. LGBTQ+ individuals still experience discrimination in their daily lives, but this law signals a significant shift toward greater equality.
Bangkok Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon confirmed that city officials are prepared to begin registering same-sex marriages as soon as the law takes effect. The legislation includes revisions to the Civil and Commercial Code, replacing gender-specific language with gender-neutral terms, ensuring equal rights for all couples.
The Pheu Thai government has made marriage equality a key priority, underscored by its active participation in Bangkok’s Pride parade in June, which drew thousands in celebration of LGBTQ+ rights. In a further show of support, Bangkok Pride organizers announced plans for a mass wedding event on the first day the law takes effect, offering couples the opportunity to register their marriages in a public celebration.
Thailand’s move toward marriage equality reflects growing acceptance and marks a significant victory for LGBTQ+ advocates across the region.
