In relief to LGBTQ+ couples, Thailand has recognized same sex marriage and the law granting them the same rights as heterosexual couples has come into legal status on Thursday.
Thailand passed the Marriage Equality Bill in June 2024 and it comes into effect on January 23 with the country becoming first in South Asia and third in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to legalize same sex marriage.
Hundreds of same sex couples have been queuing up in Bangkok to register their wedding today as BBC reports that around 311 same-sex couples will register their wedding in the capital.
The Marriage Equality Bill, which had passed both the houses of parliament in Thailand, made amendments to Civil and Commercial Code to change the words “men and women” and “husband and wife” to “individuals” and “marriage partners.”
The act is poised to open full access for the LGBTQ+ couples related to legal, financial and medical rights.
Associated Press quoted Kullayahnut Akkharasretthabudh, a businessman whose partner is Juthatip Suttiwong and stated, “The enforcement of the marriage equality law is proof that regardless of our gender, we all share the same basic human rights in every aspect under Thai law.”
Kullayahnut further added, “It also paves the way for other countries in Asia, highlighting the importance of recognizing each other’s human values and enabling everyone to live.”
he city government of Bangkok said that it arranged workshops for staff of all its district offices who are involved in the handling of same sex marriage registration.
The workshop by the city government, which was similarly offered by the country’s Interior Ministry, offered lectures raising awareness about gender diversity and guidance on how to properly communicate with those who come for the service.
