Thailand has legalised same-sex marriage, making it the first South East Asian country to do so.
Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn signed a bill into law this week that will take 120 days to come into effect.
Same-sex marriages will be legal before the end of January next year.
Thailand is the third Asian jurisdiction to legalise same-sex marriage.
Background
Taiwan passed marriage equality laws in 2019, and Nepal has recognised some same sex unions since the end of 2023.
Thailand’s Lower House voted on the bill in March, with a majority of 400 votes to 10.
In June, the bill passed the Upper House with 130 votes in favour and four against.
This week’s signature from the Thai King makes it official.
Same-sex marriage legal in Thailand
The Marriage Equality Act will see phrases like “men and women” or “husband and wife” be replaced with gender neutral terms including “individuals” and “marriage partners”.
The new law also includes the right for same-sex couples to adopt or have children through IVF.
It comes amid calls for law reforms to protect the rights of trans people in the country.
Response
Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was in office when the bill passed Parliament. He said the new law is “another important step” and that “gender diversity will finally be fully accepted.”
LGBTQIA+ activist Siritata Ninlapruek told Agence France-Presse: “We are all delighted and excited. We’ve been fighting for our rights for over 10 years, and now it’s finally happening.”
Current PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra said: “Congratulations on everyone’s love… This is a joint fight”.
