Marriage equality approved, LGBTQA+ couples to wed in 120 days

King Rama X yesterday approved the Marriage Equality Bill allowing LGBTQA+ couples in Thailand to officially marry in 120 days after the approval.

The movement to allow LGBTQA+ couples to legally register their marriages in Thailand began 23 years ago, in 2001, when former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was in office. However, Thai society had not yet widely recognised the LGBTQA+ community at that time, leading to the idea being quickly abandoned.

Numerous efforts have since been made by both LGBTQA+ members and various political organisations. In 2022, Thanyawat Kamonwongwat, an MP from the now-dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP), submitted the draft for a same-sex marriage bill.

Discussion and consideration of the bill were delayed for an extended period. In the interim, the government introduced the Partnership Act, which allowed LGBTQA+ couples to register their partnerships. However, the Act did not fully address their needs, as it did not grant the same rights as those afforded to male-female couples.

Finally, the Marriage Equality Bill was approved by both MPs and senators on June 18 of this year. It was then forwarded to the Cabinet for royal endorsement, and King Rama X officially approved the Act yesterday, September 24, as announced in the Royal Gazette.

The same-sex marriage law will come into effect 120 days after this announcement. As a result, LGBTQA+ individuals will be able to officially register their marriages next year.

Following the official approval, former PM, Srettha Thavisin, expressed his appreciation on his personal Twitter account yesterday.

“Another important step for Thai society. The marriage equality law has been passed. Equality is tangible in Thai society. Gender diversity will finally be fully accepted. Congratulations!”

PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra also extended her congratulations to the LGBTQA+ community in Thailand, sharing on her Twitter account.

“To all the love… Congratulations to everyone in love. #LoveWins Thank you for the support from all sectors. Everyone fought together for this! #MarriageEquality.”