Thailand’s King Signs Historic Same-Sex Marriage Bill into Law

Thailand has officially legalized same-sex marriage, becoming the third nation in Asia to do so after Taiwan and Nepal. On Tuesday, the landmark marriage equality bill was signed into law by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and published in the Royal Gazette. The law will take effect in 120 days, allowing LGBTQ+ couples to register their marriages starting in January next year.

This groundbreaking legislation grants full legal, financial, and medical rights to same-sex couples, offering the same protections and benefits as heterosexual marriages. The bill passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate with little opposition in April and June, respectively.

“Congratulations to everyone’s love,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra celebrated on X, adding the hashtag #LoveWins.

Although Thailand is known for its general acceptance and inclusivity, efforts to pass a marriage equality law had been met with resistance for decades. Conservative values are deeply rooted in Thai society, and the LGBTQ+ community still faces discrimination in various aspects of daily life. Additionally, the country’s government and state agencies, historically conservative, were slow to accept changes in gender equality.

However, this year marks a turning point, as the government, led by the Pheu Thai party, prioritized marriage equality. The new law amends Thailand’s Civil and Commercial Code, replacing gender-specific language like “men and women” with more inclusive terms such as “individual.”

Bangkok Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon announced that city officials are preparing to register same-sex marriages immediately after the law takes effect. Bangkok Pride organizers also plan to hold a wedding event on the first day the law is enacted, giving couples the chance to officially register their marriages.

The passage of this bill coincides with broader efforts to embrace LGBTQ+ rights, highlighted by Thailand’s vibrant annual Pride parade in June, where thousands celebrated in the heart of Bangkok.