Thailand Moves to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage
By Judy Bokao
Thailand is known for its vibrant culture and a positive reception for the LGBTQ+ community. The country has even been a preferred destination for queer people seeking gender-affirming healthcare. The probable legalization of same-sex marriages in Thailand is yet another opportunity for the country to affirm its commitment to human rights, protection, and equality. On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, the Lower House of Representatives passed the bill for marriage equality, with an overwhelming majority of 400 members voting for it, 10 voting against it, two abstaining, and three choosing not to vote.
Thailand’s Marriage Equality Act makes significant changes, describing marriage as a partnership between two people rather than a union between a man and a woman. In addition, the bill gives LGBTQ+ couples equal rights to tax savings, the right to inherit property, and the power to consent to medical treatments for incapacitated partners. Moreover, the bill grants same-sex couples the right to adopt and start families.
The bill will next require approval from the Senate and an endorsement from the King before it can be passed into law, making marriage equality a reality in the country. This process could still take months, but going by past legislation processes, the Senate rarely rejects any legislation that passes in the lower house. If the bill becomes law, Thailand will become the second Asian country and first Southeast Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage.
Granting same-sex couples the right to marry and legally start a family is a huge step towards equality in Thailand. The LGBTQ+ community continues to suffer from discrimination and violence that undermines their dignity, denying them the same legal protections afforded to heterosexual couples. Therefore, this bill sets the momentum and sends an important message to other Asian countries about the importance of offering more legal protections to the queer community.
Consequently, legalizing same-sex marriages encourages acceptance and inclusivity of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities as it acknowledges their relationships as valid and deserving of recognition. Asian countries are generally conservative, and attitudes towards same-sex couples are widely negative. For instance, homosexual relationships are illegal and LGBTQ+ rights are hindered due to censorship, societal norms, and government restrictions in some Asian countries. Therefore, Thailand is setting an essential example in the region to foster a more tolerant and supportive society that believes in equality.
Moreover, embracing same-sex marriage enhances Thailand’s positive reputation as a progressive and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ tourists, especially the transgender community, seeking gender-affirming healthcare. The country will gain global recognition for its commitment to advancing human rights and diversity. Furthermore, legalizing same-sex marriages has economic benefits for the country, such as attracting a broader range of business investors and tourists.
The legal recognition of same-sex marriages affords protection to homosexual couples and their families. In this regard, same-sex couples will gain access to spousal rights of inheritance, healthcare insurance, parental rights, and joint property ownership, advancing the financial stability and well-being of same-sex couples.
This push towards marriage equality through the recognition of same-sex marriages in Thailand is a significant step towards social progress, advancing equality, and upholding dignity for the LGBTQ+ community. The country sets a positive example for other Asian countries to create a more inclusive society where everyone has the right to marry whoever they love regardless of gender, and all couples are recognized and treated fairly and respectfully.
About the Author
Judy Bokao is 20 years old and was born in Ethiopia but relocated to Nairobi two years ago. She is passionate about everyone having equal rights and is also big on conservation and speaking up for our planet. Judy loves reading and photography and is just a free-spirited young lady trying to grow into a woman her mom can be proud of.
