Historic win for LGBTQ rights: Thailand becomes first Southeast Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage

Thailand on Tuesday (June 17) became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage law as the world marks pride month.

The upper house of the Thai Senate overwhelmingly voted for amendments to the law governing marriage to allow couples of the same sex to marry legally. While 130 legislators voted in favour, only four voted against it. Additionally, there were 18 abstentions. 

Also read | Warning labels on social media? Vivek Murthy calls for 'surgeon general's warning label' for child safety

Now, the bill is headed to King Maha Vajiralongkorn for royal assent and would come into force 120 days after publication in the Royal Gazette.

Asia and same-sex marriage

This will make Thailand the third country in Asia where same-sex marriage has been legalised — after Taiwan and Nepal.

As per AFP, activists in Thailand hope the first same-sex weddings could be celebrated as early as October. 

Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, an LGBTQ activist and committee member who scrutinised the law, cheered after the vote, describing it as a great victory.  

"We are very proud of everyone involved in this historic moment. You have helped to bring about a massive change," she said adding, "Today love wins over prejudice." 

Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, an MP from the progressive Move Forward Party, called the legislative change "a victory for the people." 

Also read | Explained: More people are avoiding news, turning to social media for information, finds study

Same sex-marriage law in Thailand

The new law changes marriage references, including those to "men," "women," "husbands," and "wives, to gender-neutral terms. 

This will provide equality for couples of the same sex in terms of adoption and inheritance. 

(With inputs from agencies)