Thailand’s Same-Sex Marriage Bill Gets Royal Backing

The royal endorsement was published in the official Royal Gazette late Tuesday, meaning the law will come into force in 120 days, on January 22, 2025.

Reuters Agency

September 25, 2024, 02:05 PM

Last Modified: September 25, 2024, 02:06 pm

People take part in a Pride parade to celebrate the passing of the Marriage Equality Act, which made Thailand the third Asian territory to legalize same-sex unions, in Bangkok, Thailand, June 30, 2024. Photo: REUTERS/Patipat Janthong/File photo

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Thailand’s king has backed a marriage equality bill passed by parliament earlier this year, making the kingdom officially the first country in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia to recognise same-sex marriage.

The royal endorsement was published in the official Royal Gazette late on Tuesday evening, meaning the law will come into force in 120 days on January 22, 2025.

The bill, the culmination of two decades of activist efforts, was approved by the Senate in June.

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Thailand, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, is famous for its LGBT culture and tolerance.