Bangkok, Thailand – In a historic moment for LGBTQ+ rights, Thailand officially legalized same-sex marriage on Tuesday, making it the third country in Asia to do so after Taiwan and Nepal. The landmark legislation was signed into law following royal endorsement from King Maha Vajiralongkorn and was published in the Royal Gazette, marking the final step in the legislative process. The law will take effect in 120 days, meaning LGBTQ+ couples will be able to register their marriages by January 2025.

The new law allows same-sex couples to enjoy full legal, financial, and medical rights traditionally granted to heterosexual married couples. This includes the ability to adopt children, jointly own property, make medical decisions on behalf of one another, and inherit assets. The passage of the bill through Thailand’s House of Representatives in April and Senate in June demonstrated overwhelming support for marriage equality in the country.

Thailand has long been known for its relatively tolerant attitude toward the LGBTQ+ community, compared to some of its neighbors in Southeast Asia, and has become a popular destination for LGBTQ+ tourists. However, until now, same-sex couples were not afforded the same legal protections as their heterosexual counterparts.

The law’s enactment follows years of activism by LGBTQ+ rights groups in Thailand, who have campaigned for equal marriage rights as part of broader efforts to reduce discrimination against the community. Proponents of the law argue that it brings Thailand closer to its goal of becoming a more inclusive and equal society, where individuals are free to love whom they choose without facing legal or social barriers.

“This is a monumental victory for our community,” said Phongthep Thanyalak, an LGBTQ+ activist in Bangkok. “It not only grants us the same legal rights but also sends a powerful message that our love is just as valid as anyone else’s.”

The new law makes Thailand a trailblazer in Southeast Asia, where LGBTQ+ rights have traditionally faced more resistance. Neighboring countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia have strict laws against homosexuality, while countries like Vietnam, although decriminalizing same-sex relationships, have not yet moved toward full marriage equality.

The legislation also comes as a positive signal for Thailand’s economy, particularly its tourism sector. As the country remains a favored destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, experts believe that the law could further boost tourism, with many LGBTQ+ couples expected to visit Thailand to celebrate their weddings and honeymoons.

Thailand’s move follows Taiwan, which became the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019, and Nepal, which legalized same-sex marriage earlier this year.

As Thailand prepares for this new era of equality, celebrations have erupted across the country. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups are planning nationwide events to mark the first official same-sex marriages next year, with January 2025 expected to usher in an emotional and momentous day for many couples who have waited years for this legal recognition.

The law is seen as a significant step forward, not just for Thailand, but for the LGBTQ+ rights movement across Asia, signaling growing acceptance and progress in a region where equal rights for all remain a work in progress.