Lower house approves bill recognizing same-sex unions, senate and royal approval awaited
Thailand has taken a significant step towards marriage equality as its lower house passed a bill granting legal recognition to same-sex marriage. The bill, which awaits approval from the Senate and royal endorsement, is expected to become law by the end of 2024, positioning Thailand as the sole Southeast Asian country to acknowledge same-sex unions formally.
The move solidifies Thailand’s reputation as a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ couples within a region where such acceptance remains uncommon. With overwhelming support from lawmakers, the bill represents a milestone towards equality, signalling progress in a nation that already prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
The legislation redefines marriage as a partnership between two individuals, extending equal rights to same-sex couples in areas such as marital tax benefits, property inheritance, and medical decision-making for incapacitated partners. Moreover, married same-sex couples will have the opportunity to adopt children under the new law, though certain terminology amendments were not adopted by the lower house.
Despite past setbacks, including failed attempts to legalize same-sex marriage despite public support, the recent parliamentary decision reflects a growing societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand. The bill’s passage marks a historic achievement for advocates like Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, a gay MP who has campaigned tirelessly for marriage equality over the past decade.
While Thailand’s strides towards marriage equality stand out in Southeast Asia, challenges persist in neighbouring countries where same-sex intimacy remains criminalized. Nevertheless, Thailand’s legislative progress underscores a broader shift towards LGBTQ+ inclusion across the continent, with Taiwan and Nepal recently legalizing same-sex marriage and India considering further legal rights for same-sex couples. Japan and Singapore continue to grapple with similar issues, reflecting a mix of public support and political resistance to LGBTQ+ rights.
