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Thailand Moves One Step Closer to Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage
Thailand’s House of Representatives has approved the first reading of all four initiatives to change the Civil and Commercial Code to legalize same-sex marriage in the country during their first reading, according to government spokesman Chai Watcharonke.
The bills seek to change 68 Civil and Commercial Code articles to redefine terminology to promote gender equality and diversity. On Friday, all four proposals received 369 of 380 votes in favour, with one abstention. The bills are still anticipated to be read a second time.
The administration previously vowed to encourage gender equality under the law and at pro-LGBT events like Pride.
Mr Chai stated that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin met with the CEO of InterPride, the organizers of Pride parades, in November to discuss hosting the World Pride Event 2028 in Bangkok.
A first committee would be formed within 60 days, according to Pheu Thai MP for Kanchanaburi Akkaranan Kankittinan, an ad hoc committee member for the government’s version of the bill. However, no date has been set for its first meeting.
According to Move Forward Party list-MP Parit Wacharasindhu, the passage of the measures is a perfect example of how the opposition and the government can work together on female problems.
Because the measures grant equal rights to marriage, he believes they are important for all citizens, not just specific genders.
“Approving the four bills during the first reading is a sign that… people can rely on everyone in the House,” he remarked.
However, analysts say that the proposals must still include certain requirements.
Some criteria, such as legal words, may differ in the government’s version, according to Nada Chaiyajit, lecturer at Mae Fah Luang University’s Faculty of Law.
She stated that the Interior Ministry, rather than the Justice Ministry, should enforce the law, as stated in the MFP’s version.
According to Kittinun Daramadhaj, President of the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand, the ultimate text of the legislation should be fair to all.
Thailand can serve as a model for gender equality in the region, as many of its neighbours still encounter hurdles in recognizing LGBT rights, according to Mr Kittinun.
