Thailand has become the first country in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia to officially recognize same-sex marriage, with the landmark marriage equality bill being endorsed by the monarchy. The bill, which uses gender-neutral language in the country’s Civil and Commercial Code, will take effect in 120 days, allowing LGBTQ couples to register their marriages starting Jan. 22. The law grants married couples full legal, financial, and medical rights regardless of gender.
Thailand, known for its tolerance and vibrant LGBTQ social scene, faced a yearslong struggle to pass the law due to conservative social values. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra congratulated everyone’s love, using the hashtag #LoveWins to celebrate the milestone. Taiwan was the first place in Asia to allow same-sex marriage in 2019, followed by Nepal last year. Taiwan recently announced that Taiwanese Chinese couples are now legally able to register their cross-strait marriages on the island. Thailand’s new law marks a significant step forward in LGBTQ rights in Asia and is seen as a significant victory for activists who have been advocating for marriage equality in the region.
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