Thailand same-sex marriage bill
Historic Vote for Equality
Thailand is on the verge of making history as the first country in Southeast Asia to embrace equal marriage rights, following a significant legislative step where a bill supporting same-sex marriage was approved by its politicians.
During a decisive session on Wednesday, the lower chamber of the parliament showcased a substantial majority in favor, with a vote count of 400 to 10, endorsing the bill’s passage in its final reading. Upon enactment, Thailand would emerge as the third nation in Asia to acknowledge gay marriage rights, standing alongside Taiwan and Nepal.
The progression of the bill is now contingent upon the affirmation of the Senate, followed by the ceremonial nod from the king, to be enshrined into law. Having been in the pipeline for over ten years, the landmark bill is anticipated to come into force within 120 days following the royal endorsement. In a rallying call before the vote, Danuphorn Punnakanta, the chairperson of the parliamentary committee, urged, “I want to invite you all to make history,” highlighting the move as a stride towards diminishing societal disparities and fostering equality for all Thais.
Legislative Milestones and Challenges
This legislative initiative aims to amend the language in existing marriage laws from specifying “men” and “women” to terms that are inclusive of all genders, thus ensuring that LGBTQ couples enjoy the same rights to inheritance and adoption as their heterosexual counterparts.
Despite Thailand’s reputation as a haven for the international LGBTQ community, the journey towards this milestone has been fraught with challenges, stemming from deeply rooted conservative beliefs. A notable moment came in 2020 when the Constitutional Court maintained that the prevailing matrimonial laws, which recognized only heterosexual unions, were in alignment with the constitution. Nonetheless, it also advocated for the extension of legislative protections to include minority groups.
In a pivotal move towards inclusivity, the parliament, in December, green-lighted the preliminary readings of four distinct proposals aimed at legalizing same-sex marriage. A committee was subsequently tasked with integrating these proposals into a consolidated bill.
The legislative breakthrough was celebrated within the parliament, as one member introduced a large rainbow flag into the assembly, symbolizing a victory for diversity and inclusion.
Thailand’s progressive step not only underscores the ongoing efforts to combat societal inequalities but also marks a significant moment in the broader quest for LGBTQ rights across Asia.
- LGBT NEWS ASIA
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