Thailand’s king has officially signed a historic marriage equality bill into law, making the country the first in Southeast Asia to recognize same-sex unions. The bill, which cleared the Senate in June, received royal endorsement and is set to come into effect in January 2025, marking a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the region.

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The new law is groundbreaking in its use of gender-neutral language, replacing terms like “husbands,” “wives,” “men,” and “women” with inclusive terminology. This approach ensures that the law applies equally to all couples, regardless of gender. It also grants same-sex couples the right to adopt children and inherit property, providing them with the same legal protections and benefits as heterosexual couples.

This legislative change reflects Thailand’s evolving social landscape and its commitment to advancing equality for all citizens. By legalizing same-sex unions, Thailand is not only setting a precedent in Southeast Asia but also reinforcing its reputation as one of the region’s most LGBTQ+ friendly nations.