Thailand's Marriage Equality Law is set to take effect on January 22, 2025, making the country the first in Southeast Asia, the third in Asia, and the 38th globally to legalize same-sex marriage. Officially known as the Amendment to the Civil and Commercial Code Act (No. 24) B.E. 2567 (2024), the law grants equal family rights to all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, and establishes a legal framework for same-sex couples to marry and enjoy the same benefits as heterosexual couples.

The law introduces major changes, such as replacing gender-specific terms such as “husband” and “wife” with gender-neutral terms such as “spouses.” Individuals aged 18 and above now have the right to marry, divorce, and access equal benefits, including social security, healthcare coverage, property rights, and medical decision-making for their partners. These provisions address long-standing challenges faced by LGBTQIAN+ families, including the inability to make healthcare decisions or manage joint property.

The law's passage followed decades of advocacy by LGBTQIAN+ organizations, civil society groups, and political parties across both the government and the opposition. The House of Representatives approved the draft on March 27, 2024, with 400 votes in favor, while the Senate passed it on June 18, 2024, with 130 votes in favor. This milestone cements Thailand’s reputation as a progressive leader in LGBTQIAN+ rights within the region.

To celebrate this historic achievement, the government, in collaboration with Bangkok Pride, will host a mass marriage registration event for LGBTQIAN+ couples on January 23, 2025, at Paragon Hall, Bangkok. The event will run from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., offering couples the chance to officially register their marriages in a public celebration of equality and inclusion.