Thailand Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage in Historic Move
Landmark law makes Thailand the first Southeast Asian nation to grant marriage equality, following Taiwan and Nepal.
BANGKOK — For Danaya Phonphayung and Sunma Piamboon, love has never been bound by law. Together for 13 years, the couple celebrated a wedding in 2019, though their union remained unrecognized under Thai law.
Now, their long-held dream will become reality. On Thursday, when Thailand’s historic marriage equality law officially takes effect, the couple will be among the first to legally register their marriage, securing the same rights as heterosexual couples.
"I think I’ll cry," Danaya said with a smile, reflecting on the significance of the moment. "It’s something beyond what I ever dreamed of, and now it’s actually happening."
For years, they have built a life together—buying a home, a car, and sharing responsibilities—but without the legal protections of marriage. Now, they are eager to solidify their rights.
"We’ve always lived like a married couple, but we couldn’t share our assets or make medical decisions for each other," Danaya explained. "Now, we finally can."
Thailand’s Path to Marriage Equality
Thailand has long been known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and reputation for inclusivity. However, efforts to pass a marriage equality law faced hurdles in a society where traditional and conservative values still hold influence.
The breakthrough came under the government of the Pheu Thai Party, which made marriage equality a priority. The new law revises the country’s Civil and Commercial Code, replacing gendered terms like "husband and wife" with "individuals" and "marriage partners," ensuring equal rights for all couples.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra marked the occasion by meeting with LGBTQ+ activists and couples, celebrating Thailand’s emergence as a leader in equality.
"It feels like a dream, but it’s real," she said. "The world will see that in this small country, we stand for love and equality. We should all be proud."
A Celebration of Love and Progress
To mark the historic milestone, organizers of Bangkok Pride are hosting a grand celebration in the heart of the capital. More than 300 couples have registered to officially tie the knot at the event, which will also offer on-the-spot marriage registration services.
Ann “Waaddao” Chumaporn, a gender equality activist and Bangkok Pride organizer, called the law a "returning of dignity" to the LGBTQ+ community.
"This moment is not just about legal rights—it’s about recognition, respect, and love," she said. "It’s a victory for all couples who have fought for this day to come."
Implementing Change in a Traditional System
Despite Thailand’s progressive new law, challenges remain. Government agencies, long shaped by traditional perspectives, are now adapting to the change. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has conducted workshops for officials handling marriage registrations, providing training on gender diversity and respectful communication.
"The law is ready, society is ready, and now we must ensure that officials are ready too," said Bangkok Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon.
Officials acknowledge that some challenges may arise during the initial rollout, but they are committed to continuous improvement.
A Personal Victory for Danaya and Sunma
For Danaya and Sunma, legal recognition is not just a symbolic victory, but a deeply personal milestone. They recall a moment of helplessness when Danaya was hospitalized with dengue fever—and Sunma, despite being her partner, had no legal say in her treatment.
"I wasn’t allowed to make decisions until her condition became critical," Sunma recalled. "It made me realize how important legal marriage is for us."
Now, as they prepare to officially register their union, they are planning a “real wedding celebration” with both of their families—one that is not just a ceremony of love, but a triumph of equality.
"It’s not just us who are happy," Sunma said. "Our families have been waiting for this day. And now, it’s finally here."