Thailand’s equal marriage law came into effect on Thursday, with hundreds of same-sex and transgender couples tying the knot across the country.
High-profile gay actors, Apiwat “Porsch” Apiwatsayree, 49, and Sappanyoo “Arm” Panatkool, 38, were among the first couples to get married, exchanging vows in matching beige suits.
“We fought for it for decades, and today is a remarkable day that love is love,” said Arm.
Lesbian couple Sumalee Sudsaynet, 64, and Thanaphon Chokhongsung, 59, were also among the first to wed. “We are so happy. We’ve been waiting for this day for 10 years,” said Thanaphon. Sumalee added, “The legalization of same-sex marriage uplifts our dignity. It allows us to enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples.”
The mass weddings were organized by campaign group Bangkok Pride, with city authorities providing support. Kevin Pehthai Thanomkhet, a 31-year-old trans man, married his wife, Maple Nathnicha Klintgaworn, 39. “So happy, like, oh my god… my heart is beating,” Kevin exclaimed.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra welcomed the new law, saying, “Today, the rainbow flag is proudly flying over Thailand.”
Thailand has become the first country in Southeast Asia to allow equal marriage, and the third in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal. The kingdom’s same-sex marriage bill was passed in a historic parliamentary vote last June.
The new law uses gender-neutral terms and grants adoption and inheritance rights to all married couples. While Thailand has long been known for its tolerance of the LGBTQ+ community, there is still much work to be done.
Ploynaplus Chirasukon, who married her lesbian partner of 17 years, emphasized the need for greater recognition of gender identity. “People who don’t identify with their biological sex are like homeless people. The ability to be able to change our titles would allow for true equality.”
Thailand joins over 30 countries that have legalized same-sex marriage worldwide.
