June 17 , 2024
From all aspects of Thai culture, it is clear that Thailand is a country with a high tolerance for the LGBTQ+ community. Bangkok, in particular, is recognized as the gay capital, attracting LGBTQ+ tourists and immigrants from around the globe. However, despite the relatively high acceptance of homosexuality in Thai society, the legalization of same-sex marriage has progressed slowly.
In recent years, the Thai government and LGBTQ+ activists have been advocating for the legalization of same-sex marriage. This effort is partly rooted in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which Thailand ratified early on. The covenant requires States parties to promote human rights and fundamental freedoms without distinction based on race, sex, language, or religion, obligating the Thai government to eliminate all forms of discrimination and guarantee equal rights for all citizens.
After nearly a decade of persistent efforts, the Thai parliament’s lower house finally passed the bill to legalize same-sex marriage on March 27, 2024, known as the Marriage Equality Bill. This marks a significant step for Thailand in advancing gender equality and human rights protection, bringing the goal of legalizing same-sex marriage within reach. The Marriage Equality Bill primarily aims to amend and supplement specific provisions of the Thai Civil and Commercial Code that are not aligned with concepts of equality and the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. The three main aspects include: 1. Wording modification: The original legal terms "man and woman" and "husband and wife" will be replaced with "two people" and "spouses." 2. Property management: The new law stipulates that spouses have the right to jointly manage their common property and share in the benefits of these properties, including inheritance rights. 3. Adoption of children: Under the new legal provisions, spouses who have registered their marriage can jointly adopt minors.
In summary, the legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand represents a crucial milestone in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. First, it allows same-sex couples to legally establish a family and receive legal protection, affirming and supporting their commitment to one another through marriage.
Secondly, from an economic perspective, the legalization of same-sex marriage ensures equal rights for same-sex couples in property management, inheritance, and debt settlement. This will help protect the property rights of same-sex couples and reduce potential economic disputes arising from legal loopholes.
Finally, the legalization of same-sex marriage will provide same-sex couples with the same rights as heterosexual couples in adopting and raising children. This amendment will enable more children to grow up in a loving and supportive family environment.
