Thailand scripts history, becomes first South-East Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage

Bangkok: Thailand achieved a historic milestone on Tuesday as it became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage. The landmark decision was celebrated as a "victory" by advocates after the upper house of parliament, the senate, gave final approval with a resounding vote of 130 in favour, four against, and 18 abstentions.

The approved changes to the marriage law will allow couples of the same sex to officially marry. The legislation now awaits royal assent from King Maha Vajiralongkorn and is set to take effect 120 days after its publication in the official Royal Gazette.

Thailand joins Taiwan and Nepal as one of the three places in Asia where same-sex marriage is legally recognized. Activists are optimistic that the first weddings could take place as early as October. The new law replaces terms like "men", "women", "husbands" and "wives" with gender-neutral language, ensuring equal rights for same-sex couples in adoption and inheritance matters.

"Today is the day that Thai people will smile. It is a victory for the people," Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, MP with the progressive Move Forward Party, told reporters before the vote.

"Today it finally is happening in Thailand."

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights, will host celebrations at his official residence for activists and supporters. In central Bangkok, an evening rally featuring a drag show is planned, complemented by major shopping malls displaying rainbow flags in solidarity since the beginning of Pride Month in June.

"I am so happy to see how far we have come," said Chotika Hlengpeng, a participant in the Pride march that drew thousands of enthusiasts in Bangkok early in June.

Thailand has a reputation for being tolerant towards the LGBTQ community, supported by overwhelming public backing for marriage equality, as indicated by local opinion polls. While the historic vote marks a significant victory after years of advocacy, Thailand's predominantly Buddhist society retains traditional values, and LGBTQ individuals still encounter obstacles and discrimination in daily life.

Critics argue that the new laws do not go far enough, particularly in failing to address issues faced by transgender and non-binary people, who continue to be unable to change their gender on official identity documents. AFP