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In Thailand, a wind of change blows on the recognition of the rights of couples LGBT+. With the recent adoption of a law which authorizes the same-sex marriage, hundreds of couples are preparing to celebrate their love with unprecedented intensity. This historic moment marks not only legislative progress, but also a celebration of acceptance and diversity, demonstrating the country’s commitment to embrace plurality of its citizens.
Thailand is preparing to enter a new era for LGBT+ couples, with the adoption of a law that legalizes same-sex marriage. This historic moment marks the end of a long wait for many couples who dream of celebrating their love. They are finally able to marry, share rights equivalent to those of heterosexual couples, and strengthen their family status in a country renowned for its tolerance towards the LGBT+ community.
A long-awaited moment
With the new legislation coming into force, hundreds of couples are preparing to take the plunge. This moment represents much more than a simple formality, it is a victory full of emotion and hope. LGBT+ couples testify to their happiness and relief, having sometimes waited more than ten years for this day. The wedding ceremony is not only an affirmation of their love, but also a recognition of their rights and place in Thai society.
Unique Love Stories
Every union is unique, with its own love story and personal challenges. For example, Ariya Milintanapa, a transgender woman nicknamed “Jin,” discusses her journey with her American partner, Lee Ronald Battiata. After two decades together, this union will allow them to share legal guardianship of their adopted children. Jin emphasizes the importance of this formality, which will finally allow them to be recognized as a family.
Similarly, for Karisa “Fah” and Niramon “New,” their marriage is a way to acquire the same rights as heterosexual couples. They also want to secure their shared wealth, thus demonstrating that love goes hand in hand with practical concerns.
LGBT+ Community Strives for Recognition
Despite the celebration of love, challenges remain. Although the law has been passed, it does not allow transgender or non-binary people to change their gender on their identity documents. This gap underscores the LGBT+ community’s ongoing struggle to gain full recognition. Discrimination in everyday life is still very much present, and many hope that this first step towards equality will lead to other significant advances.
Apiwat “Porsch” Apiwatsayree and Sappanyoo “Arm” Panatkool, separated by their fame as actors of “Boys’ Love”, are also getting married at this event. Their journey is a testament to the evolution of Thai society and the change in mentalities, despite the challenges regarding the social acceptance of same-sex unions.
A turning point for Thailand
The implementation of the gay marriage law marks a turning point for Thailand, making it the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. This represents a significant step forward in a continent where many countries continue to criminalize homosexuality. Growing support for legislation and awareness of LGBT+ rights seem to indicate a shift in mentalities, essential for the full recognition of the rights of all.
Towards a more inclusive society
The day Southeast Asia’s first LGBTQ+ couples celebrate their nuptials is a day the state officially recognizes their love and their rights. This translates into greater visibility and hope for generations to come. The festive events surrounding these unions demonstrate the joy, pride and commitment of the LGBT+ community, which hopes for a world where love is celebrated unconditionally. This celebration of love and inclusion should promote awareness and inspire other countries to follow this path.
For more information on this historic event, see the articles available at The Voice of the North And RFI.
- Historical event: First legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand.
- Symbolism: Celebrating love and acceptance among LGBT+ couples.
- Change of law: Adoption of legislation without gender reference.
- Equal rights: Recognition of the same rights in matters of inheritance and adoption.
- Strengthening links: Sharing of legal guardianship of children within couples.
- Culture and visibility: Growing popularity of homosexual romances in Asia, particularly with “Boys’ Love”.
- Awareness: Continuous fight against discrimination and search for anti-discrimination laws.
- Family reactions: Changing attitudes and increased family support for LGBT+ couples.
FAQ on LGBT+ marriage in Thailand
In January 2025, Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to allow same-sex marriage.
The new law, passed by a large majority, no longer contains gendered references and gives same-sex couples the same inheritance, property or adoption rights as heterosexual couples.
While the law allows marriage, it does not yet recognize the right of transgender or non-binary people to change their gender on their identity documents, despite demands from the LGBT+ community.
Marriage will allow couples to share legal guardianship of their children, facilitating administrative management and ensuring legal protection for all family members.
Thailand has a reputation for tolerance towards LGBT+ people, although discriminatory discourse still exists. The success of the “Boys’ Love” genre has also reinforced a positive image of acceptance of LGBTQ+ couples.