After a three-hour long debate, Thailand's lawmakers have passed a landmark bill that will recognize same-sex marriage and grant equal marital rights to gay and lesbian couples. This makes Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to guarantee marriage rights for the LGBTQ community. The bill now heads to the upper-house Senate for review and is expected to be endorsed by the King and published in the Royal Gazette. This move solidifies Thailand's reputation as an LGBTQ-friendly tourist destination and shows a step towards progress and equality in the country.
Thailand Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage, Becomes First in Southeast Asia
In a historic move, Thailand has legalized same-sex marriage, making it the first country in Southeast Asia to do so. The bill, which passed after a three-hour-long debate in the House of Representatives, grants equal marital rights to gay and lesbian couples.
Background
Thailand has a long history of accepting LGBTQ+ people, and has been ranked as one of the most gay-friendly countries in Asia. In 2015, the country passed a law that recognized same-sex unions, but stopped short of legalizing marriage.
The push for full marriage equality gained momentum in recent years, with LGBTQ+ activists and allies campaigning for the passage of a new law. The bill, which was introduced in 2020, received widespread support from both the public and lawmakers.
FAQs
1. When will same-sex marriage officially become legal in Thailand?
The bill still needs to be approved by the upper-house Senate and endorsed by the King, but it is expected to be published in the Royal Gazette within the next few months.
2. What rights will same-sex couples have under the new law?
Same-sex couples will have all the same rights as heterosexual couples, including the right to marry, adopt children, and inherit property.
3. Will religious institutions be required to perform same-sex marriages?
No, religious institutions will not be required to perform same-sex marriages, but they will be allowed to do so if they choose.
4. What are the implications of same-sex marriage for tourism in Thailand?
Thailand has long been a popular destination for LGBTQ+ tourists, and the legalization of same-sex marriage is likely to further boost tourism. The country is now seen as a leading destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
5. How does Thailand's same-sex marriage law compare to other countries in the world?
Thailand is the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, and only the second country in Asia (after Taiwan) to do so. Globally, same-sex marriage is legal in around 30 countries.
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