Thailand's House Passes Same-Sex Marriage Legalization Bill... Will It Become Southeast Asia's First?

The Thai House of Representatives passed a bill legalizing same-sex marriage with overwhelming support. Once it receives approval from the Senate and the royal endorsement, Thailand will become the first country in Southeast Asia to allow same-sex marriage.

A same-sex couple receiving a certificate recognizing their relationship at an event held in Pathumwan District, Bangkok, Thailand, on Valentine's Day last February.
[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

According to local media on the 27th, the Thai House of Representatives approved the "Marriage Equality Act," which permits same-sex marriage, with 400 votes in favor and 10 against. The bill replaces gender-specific terms such as male and female with gender-neutral language, allowing individuals above a certain age to register their marriage regardless of gender.

Once it receives approval from the Senate and the royal endorsement, expected in the second half of this year, Thailand will become the first country in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia, following Taiwan and Nepal, to legalize same-sex marriage. Danuphon Punnakanta, the lawmaker who drafted the bill, said in parliament, "We aimed to create a society without discrimination and with equality for all Thai people," adding, "I want to make history together with all of you."