TheReporterAsia – In a historic move, Thailand’s Senate has passed the Marriage Equality Bill, paving the way for the country to become the first in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage.
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The bill, officially known as the “Draft Act Amending the Civil and Commercial Code (No…) B.E. ….”, was passed in its final reading on June 19, 2024, with 130 votes in favor, 4 against, and 18 abstentions. The legislation redefines marriage as a partnership between two “persons” instead of a man and a woman.
This marks a monumental victory for LGBTQ+ rights and human rights activists in Thailand, who have campaigned for this for years.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
- Section 1448: Amends the definition of marriage from a union between a man and a woman to a union between two persons.
- Section 1450: Removes the requirement for marriage to be between a man and a woman, allowing for same-sex couples to marry.
- Section 1463: Ensures that same-sex couples pay the same marriage registration fees as heterosexual couples.
- Other Sections: Makes additional amendments to align the law with the new definition of marriage, such as replacing terms like “husband” and “wife” with “spouse.”
The bill also amends other relevant laws, including those related to property, family, and inheritance, to ensure equal rights and responsibilities for same-sex couples.
International Reactions:
Phil Robertson, Deputy Asia Director at Human Rights Watch, hailed the bill’s passage as “a major victory for LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand and an inspiring example for other countries in the region.”
Boris Dittrich, Advocacy Director of the LGBTQ+ Rights Program at Human Rights Watch, stated, “Thailand’s decision to legalize same-sex marriage is a significant step for equality in Southeast Asia.”
Ryan Silverio, Executive Director of ASEAN SOGIE Caucus, added, “The passage of Thailand’s marriage equality law will be a positive development in the region where sexual diversity is still a contentious issue and even criminalized in some countries.”
Potential Impact and Challenges:
The legalization of same-sex marriage is expected to have positive impacts on Thailand, including boosting tourism,improving the country’s image, and promoting equality. However, challenges remain, such as opposition from conservative groups, lack of awareness, and potential discrimination against LGBTQ+ couples.
The new law is expected to take effect within 120 days of its publication in the Royal Gazette. Once in effect, Thailand will join Nepal and Taiwan as the only jurisdictions in Asia to have legalized same-sex marriage.
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