Thailand approves same-sex marriages. European Commission welcomes it

Brussels – Thailand becomes the third Asian country, after Taiwan and Nepal, to legally authorize same-sex marriages.

The law was published in the Royal Gazette after approval by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and will go into effect in 120 days. In January, same-sex couples will finally have the opportunity to register their union in Thailand. The process has been going on since spring, with the two passes through the House of Representatives and the Senate in April and June, respectively, allowing full legal, financial, and medical rights to marriage partners of any sex.

It is a great success for the LGBTQ+ community, which has seen their rights recognized in the face of a historically conservative government and society. The change of language in the Civil Code to replace gender-specific words, such as “man or woman,” with neutral words, such as “individual”, was also important.

The European Union congratulates Thailand for this achievement, making it “the first country in Southeast Asia to recognize same-sex unions.” This provides a positive example for the region as a model for spreading inclusiveness and promoting equality. The EU then reiterated its encouragement toward the Asian country in supporting the promotion of the right to freedom of expression without discrimination.

As part of the Agreement on Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation signed by the EU and Thailand, Brussels looks forward to further strengthening relations regarding all aspects that make societies more inclusive, considering the shared commitment to non-discrimination, gender equality, and respect for human rights.