Thailand to celebrate marriage equality at UN event in Bangkok
The Thai Interior Ministry will hold an event at the United Nations Convention Centre in Bangkok next Monday, January 13, to celebrate the forthcoming implementation of the Marriage Equality Act on January 23. This will mark a significant milestone as Thailand prepares to enact this legislation for the first time.
According to Traisulee Taisaranakul, spokesperson for the ministry, the event is being organised in collaboration with the Department of Provincial Administration (DoPA). It will see the participation of 400 attendees, including officials, representatives from the UN and embassies, and members of the media.
Anutin Charnvirakul, who holds the dual role of Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, will preside over the ceremony. A central theme of the event will be the readiness of registrars across the country to handle marriage registrations for same-sex couples.
The DoPA has taken steps to update regulations, computer systems, and marriage registration forms to facilitate the smooth registration of same-sex marriages once the bill becomes law.
A highlight of the event will be the ceremonial presentation of flags to the governors of Bangkok and Thailand’s 76 other provinces. Additionally, a symposium on gender equality will be held.
Traisulee noted the event’s aim to increase awareness about the new legislation both in Thailand and internationally.
“The event not only demonstrates the ministry’s preparedness to support equality but also underscores Thailand’s commitment to gender diversity and human rights.”
The Interior Ministry spokesperson also mentioned that the ministry plans another event in Kathu district, Phuket, on the day the law takes effect.
During this event, 10 couples will initiate the marriage registration process under the new law, with DoPA board members present to observe. Phuket is expected to become an important location for same-sex couples wishing to register their marriages, reported Bangkok Post.
“Our ministry is dedicated to supporting the bill to promote equality and fair treatment for same-sex couples.”
The Marriage Equality Bill received endorsement from His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and was published in the Royal Gazette on September 24 last year, making Thailand the third country or territory in Asia to recognise same-sex marriage. The initiative was first proposed in 2001 but was rejected by then-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
The idea was reintroduced in 2019 under the administration of General Prayut Chan-o-cha. Although initial legislation on marriage equality was approved, it was later shelved due to the dissolution of Parliament.
The Lower House eventually passed the Marriage Equality Bill on March 27, with the Senate giving its approval 84 days later. The law will officially come into effect 120 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette, on January 23.
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