Thailand’s Senate voted overwhelmingly to approve a bill legalizing same-sex marriage, making it the first Southeast Asian country to do so, Associated Press reports.
The bill, which ensures full legal, financial, and medical rights for marriage partners of any gender, passed the House of Representatives with 130 out of 152 members in favor. It now awaits the King’s formal endorsement and will become effective within 120 days of its publication. The legislation amends the Civil and Commercial Code to use gender-neutral terms instead of gender-specific ones. However, some opposition was noted, with retired army Gen. Worapong Sa-nganet arguing for the inclusion of both gender-specific and neutral terms.
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin celebrated the bill’s passage, emphasizing Thailand’s commitment to social rights. Human rights groups like Fortify Rights hailed the bill as a victory for justice and human rights, urging swift implementation to protect LGBTQ+ rights.
