Hundreds of same-sex couples marry as Thailand's historic marriage law comes into effect

On Thursday, a historic milestone was reached in Thailand as hundreds of same-sex couples wed, marking the country’s significant step as the first in Southeast Asia to recognize marriage equality. This landmark bill, passed by the Thai parliament and officially endorsed by the king in 2024, allows same-sex couples to legally register their marriages, offering them full rights in areas such as legal matters, finance, healthcare, adoption, and inheritance.

For the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand, this moment represents a decade-long fight for equal rights and recognition. Pisit Sirihiranchai and his partner, Chanathip Sirihiranchai, were among the many couples to marry on this historic day. “It’s the happiest day of my life. We could finally and completely do what we have been wanting to do for a long time,” Pisit shared in an interview with CNN. “We are now a complete family,” he added, celebrating the long-awaited recognition of their relationship.

The newly implemented marriage equality law not only grants legal and financial protections but also affirms the dignity and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals within Thai society. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized the broader societal implications of the bill in a recorded message played at a mass wedding held in Bangkok’s Siam Paragon shopping center. “This marriage equality law marks the beginning of Thai society’s greater awareness of gender diversity, and our embrace of everyone regardless of sexual orientation, race, or religion — our affirmation that everyone is entitled to equal rights and dignity,” he said.

The wedding at Siam Paragon attracted at least 200 couples who were eager to sign up and exchange vows, according to Bangkok Pride, the organization that helped co-host the event alongside local authorities. A rainbow carpet was rolled out to welcome the couples, representing all walks of life. Among the couples was police officer Pisit Sirihiranchai, who arrived in full uniform with his partner, adding a special touch to the celebration. The event was filled with joy and inclusivity, symbolizing the triumph of equality.

One particularly heartwarming moment occurred when an elderly lesbian couple participated in the festivities, accompanied by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. They were surrounded by a backdrop of falling confetti and traditional Thai music as they walked through the venue, sharing in the joyful atmosphere. Srettha’s ruling Pheu Thai party was one of the key supporters of the marriage equality bill, underscoring the political backing for this major change in Thai society.

The celebration was not limited to Bangkok; across the country, from the coastal city of Pattaya to the northern city of Chiang Mai, similar events took place as same-sex couples marked the official recognition of their love and commitment. In Bangkok, the atmosphere was particularly festive, with many couples choosing to wear traditional wedding attire, while others donned pink or white blazers and dresses. Many guests proudly waved the rainbow flag, signaling their support for the LGBTQ+ community and marriage equality.

Adding to the excitement were performances by drag queens and celebrities on stage, where a screen boldly displayed the words “marriage equality.” The sense of celebration was palpable, as the day symbolized not only a personal victory for couples but also a collective achievement for the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand.

For many equality advocates, the new law is seen as a model for the world. “This could be a model for the world because we now have Thailand as a model,” said Kittinun Daramadhaj, a lawyer and president of the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand. “There is true marriage equality in Thailand.” The hope is that Thailand’s progressive step will inspire other countries to follow suit, ensuring equal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.

The passage of this bill is a historic victory for marriage equality in Thailand, representing the culmination of years of advocacy and activism by LGBTQ+ rights groups. It signifies a shift toward greater acceptance and equality, setting a powerful example in the region and beyond. As same-sex couples across Thailand celebrate their legal recognition, the day serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of embracing diversity in all its forms.