Source: NBC News
“Thailand’s landmark marriage equality bill has been endorsed by the monarchy, making it the first country in Southeast Asia and the third place in Asia to recognize same-sex marriage. The bill, which required approval from King Maha Vajiralongkorn, was officially written into law late Tuesday when it was published in the Royal Gazette. It will take effect in 120 days, allowing LGBTQ couples to register their marriages starting Jan. 22. The law, which amends the country’s Civil and Commercial Code to use gender-neutral words such as ‘individual’ rather than ‘men and women,’ was approved overwhelmingly by legislators this year. It grants married couples full legal, financial and medical rights regardless of gender.” (09/25/24)