Thailand’s LGBTQ+ community hopeful as Marriage Equality Bill is set to be discussed in Parliament

Thailand LGBTQ+ community is hopeful as Marriage Equality Bill is set to be discussed in the Parliament. The Bill seeks to amend the Civil and Commercial Code, changing the words “men and women” and “husband and wife” to “individuals” and “marriage partners.”

Naphat Krutthai and Rasithaya Jindasri have been in a committed relationship for eight years, but only now can they consider getting married.

In a clothing shop in Siam Square, a commercial hub in Thailand's capital, the happy couple excitedly eyed multi-coloured garments as they discussed their potential wedding. Naphat, a transgender man, and Rasithaya, a woman, want to formalise their union, as Parliament is set to debate on Thursday (December 21) a final Cabinet-endorsed draft Bill to pass landmark legislation allowing members of the LGBTQ+ community to get married.

The Bill seeks to amend the Civil and Commercial Code, changing the words “men and women” and “husband and wife” to “individuals” and “marriage partners.”

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin told reporters on December 19 after the Cabinet meeting that it will grant LGBTQ+ couples the “exact same equal rights” as heterosexual couples. This would make Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to pass such a law and the third in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal.

Naphat — or “Jim” as he’s known — said he and Rasithaya planned to register their marriage as soon as the law allowed it. As an advocate for trans rights himself, Naphat told The Associated Press, the anticipated change was not just a formality. A marriage certificate would allow LGBTQ+ couples a range of benefits, including healthcare and inheritance rights, that they have long been denied.

“It means a lot. This is the eighth year of our relationship. But our status isn't legally recognised,“ he said. ”When either of us gets sick or has an emergency, we can’t take care of each other properly. So it really matters to us.”

Thailand has a global reputation for acceptance and inclusivity. In June, downtown Bangkok staged its annual Pride Parade. It drew tens of thousands in a joyous, hours-long party. Srettha, the premier, has said after he took office in August that he supported Thailand’s bid to be a host of World Pride in 2028.