Thailand is about to become the first Southeast Asian country to recognize same-sex marriage.

According to Reuters, the Thai Senate on June 18 passed a bill allowing same-sex marriage, a move that paves the way for the country to become the first Southeast Asian nation to recognize same-sex marriage.

This bill received the support of a majority of lawmakers in Thailand with a vote of 130/4, and 18 abstentions. The bill will take effect within 120 days of the Thai Royal Family's approval.

Members of the LGBTQ+ community in Bangkok rejoiced after the Thai Senate passed a bill on same-sex marriage on June 18, 2024.

The new law changes the terms related to "man," "woman," "husband," and "wife" in marriage law to gender-neutral terms. In addition, the new law grants same-sex couples the same adoption and inheritance rights as heterosexual couples.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated in an X-rated post: "We will continue to fight for social rights for all regardless of their status." The Thai Civil Society Commission on Same-Sex Marriage affirmed: "This will underscore Thailand's leadership role in the region in promoting human rights and gender equality."

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Thailand, one of Asia's most popular tourist destinations, is often mentioned for its vibrant and open LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other orientations) environment. In early June, thousands of people participated in festivals and LGBTQ+ communities held a parade celebrating Pride Month on the streets of Bangkok, alongside Prime Minister Thavisin.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/thai-lan-sap-thanh-nuoc-dong-nam-a-dau-tien-cong-nhan-hon-nhan-dong-gioi-185240619082643.htm