The landmark marriage bill, years in the making, represents a significant victory for the LGBTQ+ community. Now, same-sex couples can officially register their unions with the same legal, financial, medical, adoption, and inheritance rights as heterosexual couples.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra celebrated the occasion with an inspiring recorded message at a mass wedding in Bangkok: “This marriage equality law symbolises Thai society’s growing recognition of gender diversity and inclusivity. It’s a powerful affirmation that everyone—regardless of sexual orientation, race, or religion—is entitled to equal rights and dignity.”

The festivities were nothing short of vibrant. At least 200 couples registered to wed at the Siam Paragon shopping centre, where a rainbow carpet welcomed newlyweds from all walks of life. 

Thailand now joins Taiwan (2019) and Nepal (2023) as the third country in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage.