Senate approves Marriage Equality Bill

The Senate on Tuesday has approved the Marriage Equality Bill in its second and third readings, making Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to implement such a law to legally recognize same-sex marriage.

The bill will now be sent to the Cabinet, after which the Prime Minister will present it to the King. The law will come into effect 120 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette. Everyone will be able to register their marriage at district offices or local administration offices.

Starting at around 4:30 PM, civil society groups marched from Parliament to Government House, transforming the route into a “Rainbow Road of Equality” and symbolizing the collective journey towards equal rights for all.

The event will feature activities such as equality-themed painting, a sticker booth, flower arches, photo spots symbolizing equality, and commemorative items.