Thailand Makes History as First Southeast Asian Nation to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage

In a landmark move for LGBTQ+ rights, Thailand's Marriage Equality Act came into effect on January 23, 2025, legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide. This historic legislation positions Thailand as the first Southeast Asian nation and the second in Asia, after Taiwan, to recognize marriage equality.

Legislative Journey

The path to this achievement began with the passage of the Civil and Commercial Code Amendment Act (No 24), 2567 BE, commonly referred to as the Marriage Equality Act. The House of Representatives approved the bill on March 27, 2024, followed by the Senate's endorsement on June 18, 2024. King Vajiralongkorn granted royal assent on August 12, 2024, and the law was published in the Royal Gazette on September 24, 2024. As stipulated, the Act came into force 120 days post-publication, marking January 23, 2025, as a pivotal date for marriage equality in Thailand. 

Implementation and Celebrations

In anticipation of the law's enactment, the Ministry of Interior and the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) undertook comprehensive preparations to facilitate seamless marriage registrations for same-sex couples. This included revising regulations, updating computer systems, and conducting trial runs to ensure readiness. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, alongside other officials and activists, confirmed the city's preparedness to provide equal marriage registration services. citeturn0search26

The inaugural day witnessed an overwhelming response, with 1,839 same-sex couples tying the knot across the country. Notably, Bangkok hosted 661 of these ceremonies, including a mass registration event at Siam Paragon, symbolizing a collective celebration of love and equality. 

Economic Implications

Beyond its societal impact, the Marriage Equality Act is projected to bolster Thailand's economy significantly. A 2025 study commissioned by travel company Agoda estimates the creation of approximately 152,000 full-time jobs and a 0.3% increase in the nation's GDP. The legislation is also expected to attract an additional 4 million tourists annually, generating around $2 billion in revenue, thereby enhancing Thailand's reputation as an inclusive and welcoming destination. 

 

The enactment of the Marriage Equality Act marks a transformative moment in Thailand's legal and cultural landscape, reflecting a commitment to human rights and equality. As same-sex couples nationwide celebrate their newfound right to marry, Thailand sets a precedent in the region, championing inclusivity and diversity.