In a groundbreaking move, Thailand’s Senate voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday to approve a bill that would legalize same-sex marriage, clearing the last legislative hurdle for the country to become the first in Southeast Asia to enact such a law. Despite its reputation for acceptance and inclusivity, Thailand has struggled for decades to pass a marriage equality law due to conservative societal values and resistance from government and state agencies.
The marriage equality bill, which grants full legal, financial, and medical rights for marriage partners of any gender, sailed through the House of Representatives in April and passed its final reading in the Senate on Tuesday with the approval of 130 out of 152 members in attendance. The bill now awaits the pro forma endorsement of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and publication in the Government Gazette, after which it will become effective within 120 days.
The legislation will amend the country’s Civil and Commercial Code, replacing gender-specific words with gender-neutral terms. The Senate’s swift vote on the first day of the current parliamentary session underscores the urgency in getting the bill passed.
Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, an 18-year-old who identifies as non-binary, thanked supporters of the legislation, calling it a “force of hope” that will help Thailand become more accepting of diversity. “Today, love trumps prejudice,” Plaifah said.
The government, led by the Pheu Thai party, has made marriage equality one of its main goals and has actively associated itself with the annual Bangkok Pride parade. Passing the law is a “triumph for justice and human rights,” according to Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn of the human rights organization Fortify Rights, who urged the Thai government to ensure swift and effective implementation of the law to safeguard LGBTI+ rights.
As Thailand prepares to celebrate this historic milestone, the country sets an example for the rest of Southeast Asia in recognizing and protecting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.
