BANGKOK — Hundreds of LGBTQ+ couples in Thailand are expected to legalize their marital status on Thursday, the first day a law giving them the same rights as heterosexuals goes into effect.
The enactment of the Marriage Equality Act makes Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, after Taiwan and Nepal.
Marriage registration is traditionally done at district offices, but on Thursday, approximately 300 couples are expected to complete the day-long ritual at an exhibition hall in a shopping mall in central Bangkok. Hundreds more are predicted to enroll in less favorable conditions across the country.
The marriage equality bill, which passed both houses of parliament, amended the Civil and Commercial Code to change the terms “men and women” and “husband and wife” to “individuals” and “spouses.” It should open access to legal, financial and medical rights for LGBTQ+ couples.
Partners will have equal rights and obligations in dealing with joint assets, tax obligations and deductions, inheritance rights and survivor benefits.
Thailand has a reputation for acceptance and inclusivity, and thousands of people from around the world attend the annual Bangkok Pride parade. But rights activists have struggled for decades to pass marriage equality in a liberal society where members of the LGBTQ+ community say they face discrimination in everyday life, although they note that things have improved significantly in recent years.
Read more: From Moo Deng to Marriage Equality, Thailand Redefines ‘Soft Power’
Couples interviewed earlier this month by the Associated Press expressed joy at the new law, even those who have been in long-term relationships.
“The enforcement of the marriage equality law is proof that regardless of our gender, we all share the same basic human rights in all aspects under Thai law,” said Kullayahnut Akkharasretthabudh, 38, a homeowner with her partner Juthatip Suttiwong, 24, a chef. “It also paves the way for other Asian countries, highlighting the importance of recognizing each other’s human values and making everyone live.”
Patherine Khunnares, 37, a web designer, said she and researcher Vivian Chullamon, 36, “have a supportive community, friends, and family who accept us for who we are and accept the person we love. Marriage, it seems, isn’t all about filling us up emotionally.
“However, ultimately, we believe that as bisexual people, we should be afforded the same basic legal rights as heterosexuals. We are a perfect family in spirit, but legal recognition can ease our future worries. At the end of the day, we’re not asking for anything special—we just want a simple and happy family life.”
The Bangkok city government said it has organized workshops for employees of all district offices in charge of marriage registration. Include gender awareness talks and guidance on how to communicate effectively with those who come to the service. The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a similar directive.
“It’s like the missing piece of the berry,” said Bangkok Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon at one of the workshops earlier this month. “The community is ready. The law is right. But the final piece of the jigsaw is understanding from the authorities. “
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