In a historic move, the Thailand Senate, the upper house of the National Assembly, voted overwhelmingly in favor of the Marriage Equality Bill earlier on Wednesday. The bill, which received 130 affirmative votes, 18 abstentions, and only four votes against, now paves the way for Thailand to become Southeast Asia’s first and Asia’s third country to legalize same sex marriage.
The legislation, which was previously endorsed by the lower house in March with nearly unanimous support, awaits the formal approval of Thai monarch King Rama X, expected to be granted imminently.
What is the Marriage Equality Bill of Thailand
The Marriage Equality Bill replaces traditional gender-specific terms in Thai marriage laws with gender-neutral language like “spouse” and “person,” allowing two individuals to marry regardless of their gender. This also grants same-sex couples equal rights in adoption, inheritance, and tax benefits, as well as legal recognition in cases of medical treatment and financial matters.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, expressed his support following the Senate’s decision, announcing plans to host celebratory events at his official residence.
’80 percent Thais support same sex marriage’
The bill’s broad support across political parties mirrors a shift in Thai society towards greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights and same-sex marriage. A 2022 poll by Thailand’s National Institute of Development Administration indicated overwhelming public tolerance towards LGBTQ+ family members, with 80% supporting same-sex marriage.
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In contrast to Thailand’s progressive step, many Asian countries still lag behind on LGBTQ+ rights. India, for instance, recently saw its Supreme Court decline to amend marriage laws to recognize same-sex marriages, leaving the issue to Parliament. Meanwhile, several nations in the region maintain severe legal restrictions on same-sex activity, including the death penalty in some cases.
Globally, same-sex marriage is legal in 36 countries, not including Thailand, highlighting the country’s pivotal move towards equality in Southeast Asia.
As Thailand prepares for the final endorsement of the Marriage Equality Bill, activists and supporters anticipate a landmark moment that could set a precedent for LGBTQ+ rights across the region and beyond.
