Thailand, known for its vibrant LGBTQIA+ community, has made history as the country finally approved the bill legalizing same-sex marriage, also known as the Marriage Equality Bill, on Tuesday, June 18.
In a parliamentary vote, the Thai Senate passed the bill with a staggering difference of 130 votes to four, with 18 abstentions. With this, Thailand is now the first country in Southeast Asia to approve such a bill.
To celebrate this milestone, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, including politicians, celebrities, activists, and diplomats, gathered at the front of the Government House, decorated with rainbow flags, carpets, and balloons that represent the community.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who was not able to attend the celebrations due to COVID-19, shared his excitement over the win in a social media post.
“I am proud of the collective effort of all stakeholders, which reiterates the power of 'unity in diversity' of the Thai society. We will continue our fight for social rights for all people regardless of their status,” the post read.
LGBTQIA+ advocates also mark this as a “monumental step forward” towards equality in the country and the region.
The Marriage Equality Law grants full legal, medical, and financial rights for married couples of all genders, including inheritance, adoption, and health care. Thailand is also now the third country in Asia to allow same-sex marriage, following Taiwan and Nepal.
