Thailand Set to Celebrate First Same-Sex Marriages on January 23

Thailand First same sex Marriages

A Historic Day for Equality

January 23 will mark a major milestone in Thailand as the first same-sex marriages are celebrated following the enactment of the Marriage Equality Act. In Bangkok, at least 300 couples are expected to formalize their unions, a first for the country and a significant advancement for LGBTQ+ rights.

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Preparations by the Bangkok Municipality

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is making extensive preparations to ensure the day runs smoothly. Deputy Governor of Bangkok, Sanon Wangsrangboon, has overseen the arrangements across various district offices. Officials have been trained to assist couples with the necessary procedures and ensure a seamless process.

To expedite the process, couples have been encouraged to complete online forms. So far, more than 150 couples have registered for January 23, with the number expected to reach 300.

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Special Celebrations at Siam Paragon

Among the 150 pre-registered couples, 75 have chosen Siam Paragon, a landmark shopping mall in Bang Rak district, known as the “Village of Love,” as their wedding venue. The remaining couples will marry at various district offices across Bangkok.

Special activities are planned at the Bang Rak and Pathumwan district offices to celebrate this historic event. Pornpan Watthanasin, head of the district office, confirmed that all efforts are being made to welcome couples in a festive atmosphere.

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Significant Changes to Official Documents

One of the major changes introduced by the new law is the use of neutral terms such as “spouse” in official documents, replacing the traditional terms “husband” and “wife.”

Additionally, on January 14, the Department of Provincial Administration launched a nationwide campaign to promote the registration of same-sex marriages. Thai citizens will also be able to marry foreign partners, but if the partner’s home country does not recognize same-sex marriage, the marriage will only be legally valid within Thailand.

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Support from Lawmakers and the People’s Party

The Bang Rak district office recently hosted Thanyawat Kamolwongwat and Paramet Witthayaraksan, members of parliament from the People’s Party, who expressed their support for this historic event. Members of the party will be present on January 23 to congratulate the couples registering their marriages.

According to Thanyawat, “This event demonstrates the progress made in achieving equality and social acceptance of gender diversity in Thailand.”

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Royal Recognition

The Marriage Equality Bill was approved by His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and published in the Royal Gazette on September 24. This legislation makes Thailand the third country or territory in Asia to recognize same-sex marriage, further solidifying its role as a regional leader in LGBTQ+ rights.

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Thailand’s progressive step toward equality will be celebrated on January 23, a date that will remain etched in the nation’s history as a symbol of love, diversity, and inclusion.