Thai Parliament Passes Same-Sex Marriage Bill, Awaiting King's Approval

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2024-06-20

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Thailand’s parliament has passed an amendment to the Civil and Commercial Code, allowing same-sex couples to enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples.

The legislation, which received strong public support, will now go to King Maha Vajiralongkorn for assent. Once published in the royal gazette, it will take effect 120 days later.

Thailand will become the third Asian jurisdiction, after Nepal and Taiwan, to legalize same-sex marriage. The bill replaces gender-specific terms like “men” and “women” with gender-neutral language, ensuring equal rights for LGBTQ couples, including inheritance and adoption rights. The minimum marriage age for same-sex couples will be 18 years old. This historic step marks a victory for activists, civil society organizations, and lawmakers who have tirelessly fought for marriage equality in Thailand.