Same-sex Marriage Legal in Thailand

Wednesday, 22 January, 2025132 words2 minutes

Thailand is making history this week by legalizing same-sex marriage, becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to do so. This new law will give LGBTQ+ couples the same legal rights as heterosexual couples.

Danaya Phonphayung and Sunma Piamboon, a couple who have been together for over 13 years, are eagerly awaiting this change. They had a wedding ceremony in 2019, but it wasn't legally recognized. Now, they plan to officially register their marriage on the first day the law takes effect.

The new law changes words in Thailand's legal code from 'men and women' and 'husband and wife' to 'individuals' and 'marriage partners'. This change will grant same-sex couples full legal, financial, and medical rights. The Thai government sees this as a significant step towards equality and inclusivity in their society.

Original News

Quiz

1. What is unique about Thailand's new law in Southeast Asia?

It's the first to allow same-sex marriage

It's the first to allow divorce

It's the first to allow polygamy

2. How will the new law change Thailand's legal code?

It will remove all mentions of marriage

It will change specific words to be more inclusive

It will add new sections about LGBTQ+ rights

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