BANGKOK. In a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ rights, Thailand will become the first Southeast Asian nation to legalize same-sex marriage when a historic law takes effect on Thursday, January 23. This monumental change grants LGBTQ+ couples the same legal rights as heterosexual couples, marking a significant step toward equality in the region.
Danaya Phonphayung and Sunma Piamboon, a couple who have been together for over 13 years, will finally see their relationship recognized under Thai law. “I think I’ll cry,” said Danaya, reflecting on the upcoming registration of their marriage. “It’s something that was more than I could’ve dreamed of, that suddenly this day is happening.”
The marriage equality bill, passed by the Thai Parliament, amends the Civil and Commercial Code to replace gender-specific terms like “husband and wife” with inclusive language such as “individuals” and “marriage partners.” This reform ensures LGBTQ+ couples gain access to legal, financial, and medical rights previously denied to them.
Sunma, who owns a travel agency, highlighted the importance of legal recognition during a personal experience when Danaya was hospitalized with dengue fever. “The doctors asked me who I was, and I said I was the girlfriend, and they were like, ‘so what?’” she recalled. “I couldn’t make any decisions until her condition became quite serious. This law changes everything for us.”
While Thailand is often celebrated for its inclusivity, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced societal challenges and discrimination. However, progress in recent years, including the government’s active support for LGBTQ+ rights, has paved the way for this legislative breakthrough.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a strong advocate for marriage equality, expressed pride in Thailand’s achievement. “It’s almost like a dream, but it’s not. So, congratulations to all,” she said. “The world will notice that in this small country, we support our people and their rights.”
To celebrate the law’s implementation, Bangkok Pride organizers have partnered with government agencies to host a grand event in central Bangkok. More than 300 couples are expected to register their marriages during the celebration.
Recognizing the need for societal adaptation, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has conducted workshops to train district office staff on handling marriage registrations for LGBTQ+ couples. “It’s like a missing piece of the jigsaw,” said Bangkok Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respect from government officials.
Gender equality activist Ann “Waaddao” Chumaporn, a lead organizer of Bangkok Pride, described the new law as a restoration of dignity. “That day is going to be meaningful to all the couples that have gone through this journey together,” she said. “I’d like to thank everyone, every love, that has faithfully struggled so that today would finally happen.”
For Danaya and Sunma, the law signifies more than legal rights—it is a validation of their love and commitment. “It’s not just the two of us that are happy, but both of our families feel it is a big deal,” Sunma shared. “Everyone said they are waiting for Jan. 23.”
As Thailand takes this historic step, it sets an inspiring precedent for equality and inclusivity across the region.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
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