During a time when the world is discussing same-sex marriage, many countries have already legally permitted such unions. Thailand is the latest member to join this group. Thailand’s same-sex marriage law came into effect on January 22nd. Marking its commencement, 180 same-sex couples got married on the 22nd. The same-sex marriage bill was passed in Thailand’s parliament last year, notably receiving 400 votes in favour. This law implementation allows same-sex couples in Thailand to legally marry, with equal rights for asset management, inheritance, and adoption.
Thailand Permits Same-Sex Marriage
Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to recognise same-sex marriage. This significant moment came after the Thai king signed the marriage equality bill. The bill received Senate approval last June, and following royal assent, the law became effective from January 22nd. Under this new law, gender-neutral terms replace specific terms like “husbands,” “wives,” “male,” and “female” – a notable feature implemented to accommodate adoption and property inheritance rights.
Result of a Struggle for Marriage Equality
Regardless of global majority opinion, this is the result of years of struggle for marriage equality. The Thai LGBTQ+ community expressed gratitude to the king and government for ensuring equal rights for all, seeing it as a catalyst for LGBTQ+ rights movements in other countries. Thai parliamentarian and marriage equality committee chairman Danuphorn Punnakanta emphasised that the law aims to secure the aspirations and rights of the LGBTQ+ community.
Adoption Rights Included
Of the 415 parliamentarians present, 400 voted in favour of the bill. The law describes marriage as a partnership between two individuals rather than between a man and woman. It includes significant provisions regarding tax benefits, property rights, and medical treatment access. Notably, married same-sex couples can adopt children, though documents must use the term “parents” rather than “father and mother.”
Public Support
Thailand is recognised as a state that prohibits discrimination based on gender identity, unlike many other Asian countries. Thailand is considered more LGBTQ+-friendly, although same-sex marriage rights weren’t previously available. Public support was high, with a government survey in late 2024 showing 96.6% approval from the total population.
LGBTQ+ Community Celebrates
The LGBTQ+ community, who had long awaited this moment, is now celebrating. Legal marriage was once unimaginable for Thailand’s LGBTQ+ community. The initial wedding ceremonies garnered significant attention, with many following the celebrations on social media. State officials, including police officers, were among those who married on the first day.
Special Election Promise
LGBTQ+ rights were a prominent election topic in Thailand, with several political parties promising same-sex marriage legislation before the last election. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made this promise, and in December, the lower house passed four proposed bills recognising same-sex marriage. However, proposals to allow people to change their gender identity were rejected by the parliament.
Same-Sex Marriage in Asian Countries
Taiwan was Asia’s first country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019. Nepal legalized it last year following a Supreme Court ruling. India’s Supreme Court ruled against same-sex marriage, though the LGBTQ+ community continues their rights struggle. Japan faces a similar situation, with courts ruling against same-sex marriage. Meanwhile, Singapore repealed a colonial-era law criminalizing same-sex relations in 2022.
