Thailand’s transgender rights echoed by Pheu Thai Party

Efforts to champion transgender rights in Thailand have gained momentum, with Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, endorsing a push for legal recognition of transgender individuals. This initiative aligns with Thailand’s aspiration to host World Pride by 2030, showcasing the nation’s commitment to equality and inclusivity.

At a recent event held at the Siam Discovery shopping centre, Paetongtarn revealed that the Pheu Thai Party is advocating for transgender rights and announced the schedule for this year’s Pride Month festival, beginning on May 31.

Despite the opposition to the Move Forward Party’s gender recognition bill, which was defeated with 256 votes against, 152 for, and one abstention on February 21, she emphasised the party’s dedication to advancing equality for all.

The proposed bill faced resistance in the House where it was labelled “extreme” and was met with outspoken opposition from several MPs.

Nonetheless, Pheu Thai maintains its stance, inheriting the legacy of its predecessor parties, Thai Rak Thai and People Power Party, which both advocated for LGBTQ+ rights.

A milestone was achieved on March 27 when the Pheu Thai-led government facilitated the passage of the marriage equality law in the House of Representatives. Paetongtarn expressed optimism that the law will receive the Senate’s approval and come into effect later this year.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau is also contributing to these progressive strides by planning to bid for the rights to host World Pride 2030, reported Bangkok Post.

In related news, as Thailand gears up to potentially host the prestigious World Pride event in 2030, Siam Piwat Group is championing a progressive stance on LGBTQ rights.

The property and retail giant has launched the “Celebration: Right to Love” campaign in anticipation of the same-sex marriage bill’s enactment by the end of the year. This legislative milestone would position Thailand as the first Southeast Asian nation to legalise same-sex unions.