Thailand has made history by becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. As the new law takes effect, LGBTQ+ groups are aiming for over 1,000 marriage registrations on its first day, marking a significant milestone in the country's fight for equal rights.

On Thursday, hundreds of LGBTQ+ couples in Thailand celebrated their marriages as the country’s equal marriage law officially took effect, marking a historic moment after years of advocacy by activists. This legislation, known as the Marriage Equality Act, makes Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex and transgender marriage, and it stands as the third Asian nation, following Taiwan and Nepal, to achieve such a milestone.

With the implementation of this law, Thailand joins over 30 countries globally that have adopted equal marriage legislation, a movement that began in the Netherlands in 2001. The passage of the law in June of the previous year was celebrated by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who hailed the day as one "close to the hearts of many Thais" and expressed that equal marriage was now a reality, thanks to collective efforts.

To commemorate the occasion, rainbow flags were proudly displayed above the country’s Parliament, and shopping complexes across Thailand planned events to celebrate the introduction of the law. LGBTQ+ organizations aimed to make the first day of the law’s implementation a significant one, targeting 1,448 wedding registrations, a number chosen in reference to the section of the Thai Civil Code that facilitates equal marriages. The goal also includes setting a world record for the largest number of same-sex marriage registrations on a single day. "One-four-four-eight symbolizes the fight for marriage rights for all genders. It represents the dream and hope of building an inclusive society that accepts and celebrates love in all its forms," explained the LGBTQ+ group Bangkok Pride.

The new law adopts gender-neutral language, using terms such as "individuals" and "marriage partners" instead of "men" and "women" to ensure transgender individuals can legally marry. This legislation grants LGBTQ+ couples full legal, financial, and medical rights, including tax deductions, inheritance, and survivor benefits. However, the definition of family remains rooted in the traditional concept of a father as a man and a mother as a woman within the Thai legal framework.

Thailand, predominantly a Buddhist nation, is recognized for its tolerant and accepting environment, as evidenced by the annual Bangkok Pride event, which draws thousands of attendees from around the world. Public opinion polls have shown strong support for equal marriage in the country. Despite this, LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination and challenges in their daily lives, with many hopeful that the new law will help to alleviate these barriers.