Thailand Sees Historic Day as 1,754 Same-Sex Couples Tying the Knot
BANGKOK: Almost 2,000 same-sex and transgender couples married in Thailand today as the kingdom’s equal marriage law went into effect in a first for Southeast Asia.
Thailand is by far the biggest nation in Asia to recognize equal marriage. More than 30 countries have legalized marriage for all since the Netherlands became the first to allow same-sex unions in 2001.
Mass Wedding Celebrations
There were hugs and tears of joy at more than 800 district offices across the country where 1,754 same-sex couples had tied the knot by 4.30pm, according to the ministry of the interior. Lesbian couple Sumalee Sudsaynet, 64, and Thanaphon Chokhongsung, 59, were the first to wed at Bangkok’s Bangrak district office, and the couple showed the media their engagement rings.
"We are so happy. We’ve been waiting for this day for 10 years," said Thanaphon, wearing a white gown. "The legalisation of same-sex marriage uplifts our dignity. It allows us to enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples. My emotions today are so overwhelming, I can’t even put them into words."
Reputation for Tolerance
Thailand has long had an international reputation for tolerance of the LGBTQ community, and opinion polls reported in local media have shown overwhelming public support for equal marriage. At Siam Paragon mall in downtown Bangkok, dozens of couples dressed in traditional and contemporary wedding outfits trickled into a large hall for a mass wedding organized by campaign group Bangkok Pride with city authorities.
Transgender Couples Also Celebrate
Kevin Pehthai Thanomkhet, a 31-year-old trans man, married his wife, Maple Nathnicha Klintgaworn, 39. "So happy, like, oh my god … my heart is beating," said Kevin. His 65-year-old father Phornchai added: "I have always accepted (him). Whatsoever, it is okay with me."
New Marriage Law
The new marriage law uses gender-neutral terms in place of "men", "women", "husbands" and "wives", also clearing the way for transgender people to wed, and grants adoption and inheritance rights to all married couples. "Today, the rainbow flag is proudly flying over Thailand," Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra posted on X.
Challenges Remain
Despite its reputation for tolerance, much of the Buddhist-majority kingdom retains traditional and conservative values and LGBTQ people say they still face barriers and discrimination in everyday life. "In the past, LGBTQ people were seen as monstrosities," said Ploynaplus Chirasukon, who married her lesbian partner of 17 years, Kwanporn Kongpetch. She supports the push for gender identity recognition, including the right to change forms of address. "People who don’t identify with their biological sex are like homeless people," she said. "The ability to be able to change our titles would allow for true equality."
Conclusion
Today marks a historic day for Thailand as it becomes the first country in Southeast Asia to recognize equal marriage. The new law is a significant step forward for the LGBTQ community, providing a more inclusive and equal society. While challenges remain, this milestone is a testament to the progress made and the push for greater acceptance and understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did same-sex marriage become legal in Thailand?
A: The same-sex marriage law came into effect 120 days after it was ratified by King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
Q: How many same-sex couples married on the first day of the new law?
A: 1,754 same-sex couples married on the first day of the new law.
Q: What are the key provisions of the new law?
A: The new law uses gender-neutral terms, allows transgender people to wed, and grants adoption and inheritance rights to all married couples.
Q: What is the current public opinion on same-sex marriage in Thailand?
A: Opinion polls reported in local media have shown overwhelming public support for equal marriage.