Thailand’s first same-sex marriage law took effect as hundreds of couples participated in a mass wedding ceremony in Bangkok. The couples had been eagerly awaiting this day for many years, as marriage between two women was previously not allowed in the country. The event was hosted by a rights group named Naruemit Pride, and officials presided over each wedding, formalizing the couples’ legal unions before celebrating with flowers and photos.
Thailand is known for its tolerance towards the L.G.B.T.Q. community, but legalizing same-sex marriage required years of campaigning and advocacy. The country’s decision to allow same-sex marriage makes it the first in Southeast Asia and only the third in Asia, following Taiwan and Nepal. Despite conservative attitudes still prevalent in some parts of Thai society, the government has become more progressive on social issues, such as legalizing marijuana for recreational use in 2022.
To celebrate the new law, Thailand’s prime minister presided over a photo shoot with couples preparing to marry, emphasizing the historic nature of the occasion. The government also plans to promote Thailand as an L.G.B.T.Q. tourist destination, capitalizing on the country’s reputation for openness and acceptance. Couples like Amnad and Aphinun attended the mass wedding ceremony to obtain full legal rights and celebrate their enduring relationship, which has been strengthened by the ability to officially marry.
For couples like Rungtiwa and Phanlavee, the journey to marriage began more than a decade ago when they were turned away from a wedding ceremony due to their same-sex relationship. They had realized the importance of legal rights when faced with a family health scare, prompting them to take action to secure their rights as a couple and as parents. Through legal maneuvers and adoptions, they navigated the system to ensure that all members of their family were legally recognized.
Their daughter, Chomchanok, played a vital role in their journey to marriage, as her birth and subsequent adoptions highlighted the legal obstacles faced by same-sex couples. Today, with the legalization of same-sex marriage, their lives will become simpler in legal terms, even if societal acceptance remains a challenge. The new law allows couples like Rungtiwa and Phanlavee to publicly declare their commitment to each other and enjoy the same rights and protections as heterosexual couples.
The mass wedding ceremony in Bangkok symbolized a turning point for Thailand, marking the recognition of same-sex unions by the state. The colorful celebration, attended by officials, journalists, and couples from various walks of life, exemplified the joy and happiness that legalizing same-sex marriage brings to many individuals and families. Despite lingering conservative attitudes, Thailand’s progressive stance on social issues reflects the country’s evolving values and commitment to equality and inclusivity for all its citizens.
