UN Human Rights Office welcomes enactment of historic marriage equality law in Thailand, legalising marriage between same-sex couples

BANGKOK (23 January 2025) – The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) for South-East Asia welcomes the entry into force of Thailand’s historic Marriage Equality Act, which provides equal recognition of marriage for same-sex couples and paves the way for greater equality and inclusivity where all people can enjoy equal rights to marry regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation.

The new law, which officially came into effect on 23 January 2025, ensures that all couples, regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation, have equal access to marriage and legal recognition, and benefits. This includes equal treatment in the context of medical care, property, inheritance, taxation and adoption of children, among others.

“This is a momentous achievement for Thailand and the LGBTIQ+ community, following over a decade of advocacy and tireless efforts from LGBTIQ+ activists, human rights defenders and civil society organizations to create a more inclusive and equal society in Thailand, where people can marry who they love no matter who they are,” said Katia Chirizzi, Officer in Charge of the UN Human Rights Office for South-East Asia. “It sets a positive example of leadership within the ASEAN and wider region.”

While this new legislation represents a significant step forward, LGBTIQ+ individuals in Thailand continue to face discrimination and social stigma in many areas, including employment, education, and healthcare. Same-sex couples also encounter barriers, including in the context of other legislation relating to parenting. It is crucial to continue the work to ensure full equality in practice.

"We encourage the Government of Thailand to effectively implement the new law and further advance gender equality and inclusion by ensuring legal protection against discrimination, including through the passage of the Anti-Discrimination Bill and the Gender Recognition Bill,” Chirizzi said. “These steps are key to foster a society where diversity is celebrated, and everyone can live with dignity and free from discrimination.”

The Marriage Equality Act also raises the legal age of marriage to eighteen from seventeen, aligning the minimum legal age for marriage with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which Thailand has been a State party since 1992.