Top Asian News 3:56 a.m. GMT

Associated Press

Updated 19 January 2025 at 10:56 pm·1-min read

AP PHOTOS: Same-sex couples in Thailand speak of happiness before marriage equality law takes effect

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand’s landmark marriage equality bill was officially written into law on Sept. 24, after it was endorsed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn. LGBTQ+ couples will be able to register marriages this week when it takes effect on Thursday, making Thailand the third place to do so in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal. Thailand has a reputation for acceptance and inclusivity, but has struggled for decades to pass a marriage equality law. Thai society has broadly conservative values, and members of the LGBTQ+ community say they face discrimination in everyday life. The government led by the Pheu Thai party has made marriage equality one of its main goals.

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