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Thailand’s Senate Passes Landmark Bill to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage
Thailand has taken a significant step towards marriage equality by passing a groundbreaking bill in the Senate. The legislation, which recognizes same-sex marriage, makes Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to do so. Here are the key points:
Approval in the Senate:
- The upper house approved the measure with 130 votes in favor out of 152 members present, with only four against and 18 abstentions.
- This final reading paves the way for Thailand to officially recognize same-sex marriages.
Next Steps:
- The bill now awaits the pro forma endorsement of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, which is widely expected.
- Once published in the royal gazette, the law will take effect within 120 days.
Implications:
- Thailand will become the third Asian jurisdiction, after Nepal and Taiwan, to legalize gay marriage.
- The legislation replaces gender-specific terms like “men,” “women,” “husbands,” and “wives” with gender-neutral language.
- LGBTQ couples will gain inheritance and adoption rights equal to those of heterosexual marriages.
Celebration and Progress:
- Politicians and activists celebrated in the National Assembly, waving rainbow flags and expressing solidarity with the LGBTQ community.
- Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights, will host celebrations at his official residence.
Historic Moment:
- Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, a member of the parliamentary committee on same-sex marriage, called it a historic day: “Today, love triumphed over prejudice.”
- Despite Thailand’s vibrant LGBTQ culture, activists have long fought against conservative attitudes.
In summary, Thailand’s Senate has taken a monumental step forward, recognizing love and equality for all. Soon, same-sex couples in Thailand will have the legal recognition they deserve.
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