On Thursday, nearly 2,000 same-sex and transgender couples officially formalised their unions as Thailand implemented its groundbreaking equal marriage law. With royal endorsement, the bill’s enactment makes Thailand the first nation in Southeast Asia to legally recognise such relationships.
The Ministry of the Interior reported that by 6:00 pm local time, 1,832 same-sex couples had registered their marriages at more than 800 district offices nationwide. Over 1,000 couples completed their registration at district offices, while 185 couples celebrated their unions at a gala event held in a central Bangkok shopping mall.
Among the newlyweds were actors Apiwat “Porsch” Apiwatsayree and Sappanyoo “Arm” Panatkool, who registered their marriage at the Phra Nakorn district office in Bangkok.
Thailand has long been internationally known for its acceptance of the LGBTQ community. Local media reports indicate overwhelming public support for equal marriage, as reflected in opinion polls.
In a video message, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her pride in the historic moment, stating, “From now on, all love will be certified by law. All couples will live with honor and dignity in Thailand.”
