The Thai parliament is poised to commence discussions on four draft bills concerning same-sex marriage, marking a significant step toward its potential legalization. The first vote on these bills is anticipated to take place later on Thursday.
This deliberation follows last year’s parliamentary discussions on similar draft laws and the prior government’s proposal for same-sex civil unions, which did not reach a conclusive vote before the session concluded.
The four draft bills under consideration on Thursday include one presented by the new government post the May general election, another from civil society groups, and two others from the opposition Move Forward and the Democrats parties, all sharing similar approaches.
Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsuthin addressed parliament, stating, “In principle, this draft law is for the amendment of some provisions in the civic codes to open the way for lovers, regardless of their gender, to engage and get married.” He emphasized that the proposed legislation aims to grant equal rights, responsibilities, and family status to same-sex couples.
Somsak shared that a government-conducted survey between Oct. 31 and Nov. 14 indicated overwhelming public support, with 96.6% in favor of the draft bill. Although Thailand boasts one of Asia’s most open and visible LGBTQ+ communities, activists contend that existing laws and institutions still lag behind evolving social attitudes. Which is perpetuating discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals and same-sex couples.
If the draft laws pass the first reading in parliament on Thursday, they could progress to final reading votes early next year. This would make Thailand the third place in Asia, following Taiwan and Nepal, to officially recognize same-sex marriage.
