2025-01-24
On January 23, 2025, Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. Hundreds of couples gathered at local registry offices around the country to formally register their marriages.
Celebration and legal preparations
Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and other organizations, such as “Naramid Pride", organized "Marriage Equality Day” to celebrate this historic day. Events were held in Bangkok’s 50 districts, and in total, over 1400 couples are expected to register their marriages nationally.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in her speech, stressed the importance of cooperation between activists and citizens to achieve this breakthrough. She described the event as a “planting the proud rainbow flag” in the history of Thailand.
A new era for human rights
The new law replaces gender-specific terms such as “man” and “woman” with “person,” ensuring that all couples have the same legal rights. This includes inheritance, healthcare, and the right to adopt. The legislation is seen as a major step forward for human rights and gender equality in Thailand.
"Marriage is a human right,” said a newlywed woman in Bangkok. “It's not about gender, but about two souls uniting."
International recognition and tourism potential
The new law has been praised internationally and strengthens Thailand’s position as a leader in LGBTQ+ rights in Asia. Political leaders are touting it as not only a victory for human rights but also an opportunity to attract tourists and boost the economy. Former Prime Minister Abhisit Sethathabhisit highlighted the law’s potential to boost tourism and contribute to economic growth.
Guinness World Records and the Future
As part of the celebrations, Naramid Pride has applied for a Guinness World Record for the most same-sex marriages registered in a single day. The Thai government also plans to facilitate registrations for Thai citizens abroad through embassies and consulates.
What does Thailand's new same-sex marriage law mean?
- Same-sex couples can now register marriages and divorces.
- Rights included: inheritance, healthcare, adoption and other legal benefits.
- A total of 878 registration offices in Thailand are ready to handle marriage registrations, including 50 districts in Bangkok and 94 Thai embassies worldwide.
Read also:
Want to know more about how the legalization of same-sex marriage affects Thailand's tourism and economy? Read Thailand Infos previous article:
Thailand Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: Good News for Human Rights and Tourism in 2025
Text: The editorial staff
Image license: moonzigg, Pixabay, original image