Edit Lifestyle

Mass Wedding Marks the Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage in Thailand

Thailand has officially become the third jurisdiction in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, following Taiwan and Nepal. The law came into effect with celebrations across the country, including a mass wedding in Bangkok organized by the rights group Naruemit Pride.
 

A Historic Day for Equality

Mass Wedding Event:

Almost 200 couples gathered at Paragon Hall in Bangkok to register their marriages.

The hall was decorated with colorful balloons and the slogan “Love Wins.”

Among the newlyweds were Pehthai Thanomkhet, 31, and Nathnicha Klinthaworn, 39, who expressed joy after years of waiting for this legal recognition.
 

Nationwide Participation:

According to the Thai Interior Ministry, 1,832 couples registered their marriages across the country on the first day of the law.

Bangkok alone accounted for 654 registrations, with 179 at the mass wedding.

Legal and Cultural Significance

Legislative Changes:

Thailand amended its civil and commercial code to replace gender-specific terms like “husband and wife” with inclusive terms such as “individuals” and “marriage partners.”

The law grants same-sex couples equal legal and financial rights as heterosexual couples.

Cultural Shift:

While Thailand is known for being LGBTQ-friendly, it has historically upheld conservative social values. Passing this law signals a major cultural and legal milestone.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra celebrated the achievement, calling January 23 a historic day for the country.

Impact and Future Implications

Tourism Boost:

Advocates believe legalizing same-sex marriage will attract LGBTQ+ travelers and boost Thailand’s tourism-dependent economy.

Thailand may become a top wedding destination for LGBTQ+ couples globally.

Regional Influence:

Observers hope Thailand’s move will inspire neighboring countries to adopt similar laws or at least decriminalize same-sex relationships.

Remaining Challenges:

While the law covers marriage rights, it does not address family law, leaving some same-sex couples without full legal protections for parental rights.

Personal Stories of Love and Perseverance

Thanomkhet and Klinthaworn:

The couple faced societal and family challenges, including Thanomkhet’s journey as a transgender man and Klinthaworn being a single mother. Years of activism helped change perceptions.

Anticha Sangchai and Vorawan Ramwan:

This lesbian couple considered themselves married for three years after participating in a pride parade but expressed relief that their union is now legally recognized.

Ploy Rahong and Natamon Sukjaroen:

The couple celebrated their union with a sunset beach wedding on Koh Samui and officially registered their marriage after the law passed.

Thailand’s legalization of same-sex marriage is a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia. While there is still progress to be made in areas like family law, the milestone marks a significant step toward equality, celebrating love and inclusivity.