LGBTQ

  • Thailand NewsThailand’s LGBTQI+ discrimination costs the economy big time

    Thailand’s LGBTQI+ discrimination costs the economy big time

    Thailand’s economy is losing billions, and discrimination is the culprit. A new report by Open for Business reveals that LGBTQI+ exclusion is costing the nation a staggering 51.8 to 121.8 billion baht annually. This shocking figure comes from a mix of lost wages, healthcare costs, and missed economic opportunities, all linked to ongoing discrimination against the LGBTQI+ community. The report,…

  • Thailand NewsMarriage equality approved, LGBTQA+ couples to wed in 120 days

    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…

  • Phuket NewsThailand aims to host InterPride World Conference 2025

    Thailand aims to host InterPride World Conference 2025

    Thailand is reaffirming its commitment to LGBTQIA2S+ rights and preparing to bid for the InterPride World Conference in 2025, with further aspirations to host WorldPride in 2030. The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) held an event titled Thailand Announcement — Unity in Action: Thailand’s Next Steps in Equality to celebrate the passing of the Marriage Equality Bill and to…

  • Phuket NewsUproar over motorcycle accidents at Phuket’s rainbow crosswalk

    Uproar over motorcycle accidents at Phuket’s rainbow crosswalk

    A series of motorcycle accidents at the Rainbow Crosswalk at the Charter intersection in the Mueang Phuket district sparked widespread debate on social media. The vibrant crosswalk, a popular spot for tourists to take photos, became slippery during periods of rainfall, causing three to four motorcyclists to fall yesterday, July 10. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. In response to the…

  • CannabisCannabis and inclusivity in Thailand

    Cannabis and inclusivity in Thailand

    Thailand has a thriving cannabis industry that draws in crowds from a variety of nationalities, groups, and even differing opinions. When it comes to acceptance, there are a variety of hobbies and groups of people that are welcome here. With that, there is an appeal to Thailand’s cannabis scene that extends to the LGBTQ+ community. Cannabis itself embodies a more…

  • LifestyleLGBTQ+ challenges and triumphs of rights and representation in Thailand

    LGBTQ+ challenges and triumphs of rights and representation in Thailand

    Thailand is celebrated for its generally accepting social attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly evident in vibrant urban hubs like Bangkok’s Silom Road and Pattaya’s Boyztown. These areas serve as vital community centres and nightlife destinations. Cultural nuances and social acceptance In urban settings such as Bangkok’s Silom Road, venues like DJ Station and Telephone Pub are renowned for their inclusive…

  • Thailand NewsTying the knot: Thailand Senate approves same-sex marriage bill

    Tying the knot: Thailand Senate approves same-sex marriage bill

    Thailand is set to become the first nation in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage following the Senate’s approval of a marriage equality bill today. This monumental milestone was passed with an overwhelming majority, with 130 senators in favour and only four against. The bill now awaits the king’s endorsement before it can become law. Once approved, the law will…

  • Cannabis NewsEmpowering equality: One-year launch of groundbreaking cannabis business by renowned LGBTQIA+ activist

    Empowering equality: One-year launch of groundbreaking cannabis business by renowned LGBTQIA+ activist

    June 22 will mark a significant milestone in the journey towards inclusivity and empowerment within the cannabis industry with the launch of High Maa-Lai’s Pride Party, a pioneering event spearheaded by Niran Hora, a prominent LGBT activist renowned for his tireless advocacy towards LGBTQIA+ gig worker equality and justice. Combining a passion for cannabis and a commitment to LGBTQIA+ rights,…

  • GuidesBoosting HIV awareness in Thailand’s LGBTQ+ community

    Boosting HIV awareness in Thailand’s LGBTQ+ community

    Thailand’s LGBTQ+ community has some difficult hurdles when it comes to HIV awareness. Even with all the efforts, there’s still a gap in how much people know and can access information. Many gay men, other MSM, and transgender people still don’t have a full understanding of HIV. Community groups are struggling too as a lot of them depended on government…

  • Press RoomBangkok Pride Festival marks a grand Pride month celebration in Bangkok’s bustling Rama 1 Road and Siam area

    Bangkok Pride Festival marks a grand Pride month celebration in Bangkok’s bustling Rama 1 Road and Siam area

    Bangkok Pride Parade marked Bangkok’s grand celebration of Pride Month and marked a major milestone for Thailand to become the first Southeast Asia country to legalize same-sex marriage. The rainbow parade attracted more than 200,000 attendees and spectators and spanned along the bustling Rama 1 Road. Bangkok Pride Parade is hosted by Bangkok Pride and The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)…

  • Things To DoBangkok Pride events 2024: Where to celebrate Pride Month

    Bangkok Pride events 2024: Where to celebrate Pride Month

    June is finally here, and that can only mean one thing: it’s Pride Month, and Bangkok’s LGBTQIAN+ community is ready for a month-long celebration. From fabulous parades to epic dance parties to events dedicated to advocating for equal rights, the city is set to showcase its rainbow-wrapped glory like never before! And if you’re looking for the best things to…

  • Thailand NewsLGBTQ+ community migrating Bangkok for freedom & fun’s sake

    LGBTQ+ community migrating Bangkok for freedom & fun’s sake

    A Chinese real estate agent revealed the LGBTQ+ community is flocking to Bangkok to escape persecution and seek a new life that offers them more freedom. In 2019, 40 year old Owen Zhu’s real estate career was flourishing, with Chinese investors eagerly buying Bangkok properties, but the pandemic struck, halting travel and spending. Although Chinese buyers were slow to return, one…

  • Thailand NewsMyanmar couple makes history at Thai Pride parade

    Myanmar couple makes history at Thai Pride parade

    Denied the chance to celebrate their union in their homeland, where LGBTQ individuals face persecution and imprisonment, a Burmese same-sex couple sought peace and happiness in the more tolerant kingdom next door. The couple, Nyan and Mae, tied the knot in front of thousands at the annual Pride parade in Chiang Mai. The late-night ceremony on Sunday was only symbolic…

  • Business NewsBrands accused of rainbow washing during Pride Month

    Brands accused of rainbow washing during Pride Month

    Throughout June, rainbow flags adorn many city streets globally in celebration of Pride Month, symbolising the ongoing struggle for civil rights and the pursuit of equality for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Brands and companies often show their support by incorporating rainbows into their logos or changing their profile pictures to feature rainbow graphics during this time. However, when June ends, these displays…

  • GuidesTransgender rights in Thailand: A path to equality

    Transgender rights in Thailand: A path to equality

    In the vibrant landscape of Thailand, a crucial societal issue is unfolding – the protection and recognition of transgender rights. Thailand now stands on the brink of an opportunity to align its global reputation on LGBT issues with its obligations under international human rights law. The journey towards true equality is complex and challenging, but an essential step towards a…

  • GuidesLegal challenges of same sex adoption in Thailand

    Legal challenges of same sex adoption in Thailand

    Within the multifaceted and distinctive environment of Thailand, there’s a burgeoning topic that’s capturing significant interest – same sex adoption rights for LGBT couples. Unquestionably, strides have been taken with notable advancements like the Gender Equality Act in 2015. Nonetheless, in terms of all-encompassing equality, specifically on the matter of child adoption rights, this objective has not yet been completely…

  • Thailand NewsThailand champions LGBTQ rights with World Pride 2030 bid

    Thailand champions LGBTQ rights with World Pride 2030 bid

    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…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket gears up for Discover Phuket Pride 2024 to boost tourism

    Phuket gears up for Discover Phuket Pride 2024 to boost tourism

    Phuket City Municipality, in its drive to bolster tourism and uphold inclusivity, is preparing for the forthcoming Discover Phuket Pride 2024 @ Old Town festival. Set to take place on Saturday, June 29, the event is designed to commemorate the LGBTQ+ community and contribute to the urban area’s economic expansion. The announcement of the event by Saroj Angkhanapilas, the Mayor…

  • Thailand NewsThailand aims to host 2025 InterPride World Conference

    Thailand aims to host 2025 InterPride World Conference

    Thailand is setting its sights on becoming the inaugural Asian host of the InterPride World Conference in 2025. This intention was announced by the Director of the Mega Events and Festival Department under the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Harisuda Boonyawat. The InterPride World Conference is a yearly congregation of Pride organisers worldwide. It serves as a platform for…

  • GuidesHow to support LGBT rights

    How to support LGBT rights

    Nowadays, supporting LGBT rights and freedoms goes beyond mere advocacy; it’s about fostering an environment where every individual, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can live authentically without fear of discrimination or prejudice. This involves recognising that pro-LGBT beliefs are present across various religious traditions, thus reinforcing the notion that freedom of religion includes the right to support…

  • Thailand NewsLGBTQ+ couples flock to homophobic countries for honeymoons

    LGBTQ+ couples flock to homophobic countries for honeymoons

    A recent survey unveiled that LGBTQ+ couples are setting their sights on honeymoon destinations where homosexuality remains illegal, defying conventional norms. Dubai, the Maldives, East Africa, and the Caribbean are just some of the places identified by LGBTQ+ couples as dream honeymoon spots, according to Kuoni’s latest LGBTQ+ Honeymoon report. While 44% of respondents prioritise the overall destination experience over…

  • Thailand NewsViolent clash between Thai and Filipina trans groups rocks Bangkok

    Violent clash between Thai and Filipina trans groups rocks Bangkok

    Chaos erupted early this morning outside a hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 11 when a violent confrontation broke out between Thai and Filipina ladyboys. The Thai group assembled in response to an incident today, March 5, where a Thai ladyboy was assaulted and robbed by a group of about 20 Filipina ladyboys. Tensions heightened as the Thai group demanded justice, leading…

  • Thailand NewsThai Cabinet rejects gender recognition bill, citing crime concerns

    Thai Cabinet rejects gender recognition bill, citing crime concerns

    The Thai Cabinet yesterday rejected the proposed Act on Gender Recognition, Title, and Protection of Gender Diversity, citing concerns about false identities if people are allowed to use preferred titles. The titles of people in the LGBTQA+ community have been trending on Thai social media since a transgender model, Phacharanat “Mimi” Nobantao, questioned why Thai citizens were unable to choose their…

  • Thailand NewsPheu Thai Party’s Danuporn Punnakan leads Same-sex Marriage Committee in Thailand

    Pheu Thai Party’s Danuporn Punnakan leads Same-sex Marriage Committee in Thailand

    A significant stride towards equality has been achieved with the appointment of Danuporn Punnakan, a representative of the Pheu Thai Party, as the chair of the Same-sex Marriage Committee. The committee includes representatives from various sectors, with a particular focus on individuals from the public and the LGBTQ+ community. This collective endeavour aims to review and revise the legislation related…

  • Thailand NewsThailand eyes growth in pink economy by attracting international LGBTQ+ retirees

    Thailand eyes growth in pink economy by attracting international LGBTQ+ retirees

    Thailand’s potential to expand its pink economy through the attraction of international LGBTQ+ retirees was the highlight of a recent conference held in Bangkok. Dr Chaiwat Songsiriphan, who is the founder and medical director of the Safe Clinic, emphasised that Thailand’s high tolerance for gender diversity could make it an ideal retirement destination for the LGBTQ+ community. He further noted that…

  • Business NewsLGBTQ+ tourism revenue boom fuels drive for legalised same-sex marriage in Thailand

    LGBTQ+ tourism revenue boom fuels drive for legalised same-sex marriage in Thailand

    Thailand is witnessing a surge in the burgeoning LGBTQ+ community, as diversity takes centre stage worldwide, boosting LGBTQ+ tourism in the country. As per estimates by LGBT Capital, an asset management company serving the LGBTQ community, 5 to 10% of the world’s population identifies as LGBTQ+. This demographic represented around 3.6 million residents in Thailand in 2019. During Pride Month…

  • Thailand NewsLGBTQ+ rights: US and UK envoys strengthen support in Thailand

    LGBTQ+ rights: US and UK envoys strengthen support in Thailand

    In a reaffirmation of their commitment towards promoting LGBTQ+ rights across the globe, the United States and the United Kingdom have taken a significant initiative to support Thailand in its valorous efforts. This came as a collective resolve showcased at the US-UK Annual Pride Event that took place on June 23 with the theme, ‘United in Love 2023.’ The event…

  • Thailand NewsPride month marketing sparks backlash amidst ‘Rainbow Washing’ claims

    Pride month marketing sparks backlash amidst ‘Rainbow Washing’ claims

    The marketing strategies utilised by companies throughout Pride Month have sparked criticism from LGBTQ+ rights advocates who accuse businesses of merely capitalising on Pride-themed merchandise but not backing the call for equal rights in real terms. This can refer to as “Rainbow Washing.” Nikki Phinyapincha, founder of TransTalents Consulting Group, claims that these businesses just incorporated Pride Month, which is…

  • Hot NewsA question that matters: What is a woman?

    A question that matters: What is a woman?

    The question that had so many politicians stumped recently, a question that five years ago would make you think, why are you asking me such an obvious question? Well, it’s not 2018 anymore and the definition of a woman is no longer based on chromosomes and one’s ability to menstruate and mother a child. As we see in the recent…

  • Thailand NewsThai Move Forward Party vows 100-day push for same-sex marriage bill

    Thai Move Forward Party vows 100-day push for same-sex marriage bill

    The leader of Thailand’s Move Forward Party (MFP) pledged to introduce a bill legalising same-sex marriage and promoting gender equality once the party forms a government. In a recent Facebook post, MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat stated that the party’s marriage equality bill would be pushed for passage within 100 days of forming a government, as part of a memorandum of understanding…