The Legislation received overwhelming support in Upper House, heads to Palace for Royal Endorsement. Implementation Set 120 Days Post Royal Gazette Publication.
Thailand’s Senate passed the final reading of a marriage equality law on Tuesday, positioning the nation to join Nepal and Taiwan as the third territory in Asia to acknowledge same-sex partnerships.
The legislation garnered near-unanimous support among upper house lawmakers and is now bound for royal approval at the palace. It is slated to take effect 120 days after its publication in the royal gazette.
Lauded by LGBTQ+ advocates as a ‘monumental step forward,’ the move positions Thailand as Southeast Asia’s pioneer in enacting marriage equality legislation.
Renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture and acceptance, Thailand stands as a sought-after destination for tourists.
The Civil Society Commission for marriage equality, alongside activists and LGBTI+ couples, hailed the development, emphasizing Thailand’s leadership role in advancing human rights and gender equality within the region.
The bill’s passage marks the culmination of over a decade of advocacy efforts by activists and politicians, overcoming previous hurdles that prevented draft bills from reaching parliament.
In a symbolic gesture during Pride Month, thousands of LGBTQ+ enthusiasts and activists marched through Bangkok’s streets in early June, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin joining in wearing a rainbow shirt, signaling support for the cause.
