PHUKET, Thailand — Thailand’s landmark marriage equality bill has been endorsed by the monarchy, making it the first country in Southeast Asia and the third place in Asia to recognize same-sex marriage.
It will take effect in 120 days, allowing LGBTQ couples to register their marriages starting Jan. 22.
“Congratulations on everyone’s love,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said in a post on X that included the hashtag #LoveWins.
Thailand, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, is known for its tolerance and vibrant LGBTQ social scene, but it also retains conservative social values that made passing the law a yearslong struggle for activists.
Taiwan was the first place in Asia to allow same-sex marriage in 2019, followed last year by the South Asian country of Nepal.
Persons:
King Maha Vajiralongkorn, ”, Paetongtarn Shinawatra
Organizations:
Royal Gazette, ”
Locations:
PHUKET, Thailand, Southeast Asia, Asia, LoveWins, Taiwan, Nepal, Beijing