Urgent Call for Swift Passage of Thai Same-Sex Marriage Bill
==========

Thailand's lower house approved a same-sex marriage bill on March 27, 2024, and Human Rights Watch is urging the upper house to promptly pass the bill. The Marriage Equality Act was approved by 400 out of 415 members present in the House of Representatives. Thailand would become the first country in Southeast Asia and the second in Asia to recognize same-sex relationships. The bill makes amendments to the civil and commercial code language concerning spouses, changing 'men and women' and 'husband and wife' to 'individuals' and 'marriage partners.' However, concerns have been raised that the bill still uses 'mother' and 'father' instead of the more gender-neutral term 'parent,' which could complicate adoption and raising children for same-sex couples. Taiwan and Nepal have already recognized same-sex marriage in Asia. Passing the same-sex marriage legislation would allow Thailand to match its positive global reputation on LGBT rights with legal protections. Thailand is a popular destination for LGBT tourists and transgender individuals seeking gender-affirming healthcare. Human Rights Watch also calls for additional reforms for transgender rights in Thailand.

#SamesexMarriage #LgbtRights #Thailand #MarriageEqualityAct

https://www.miragenews.com/urgent-call-for-swift-passage-of-thai-same-sex-1205197/