Same-sex unions boosted in Thailand
BANGKOK — In a country that has long been a rare bastion in Asia for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, Thailand said it approved a draft bill that would give same-sex unions many of the same benefits as those of heterosexual marriages.
The bill, approved by the Cabinet on Wednesday, avoids the term “marriage” but allows for the legal registration of same-sex partnerships. Accompanying amendments to the civil code would give couples the right to jointly own property, adopt children and pass on inheritances. Civil partnerships must occur between individuals who are at least 17. At least one of the pair must be a Thai citizen.
“The Civil Partnership Bill is a milestone for Thai society in promoting equality among people of all genders,” said Ratchada Dhnadirek, a deputy government spokeswoman. “This strengthens the families of people with sexual diversity and is appropriate for the present social circumstances.”
While the bill still needs to be passed by parliament to become law, social activists say the biggest hurdle was approval by Thailand’s Cabinet, which is a stronghold of retired military generals and tradition-bound political elders.
Although some elements of the Buddhist-dominated culture in Thailand are socially conservative, the country is also one of the most open places in the world for LGBTQ people.
Yet discrimination persists, with gay and transgender individuals often encouraged to enter certain fields such as entertainment or fashion. Rights activists say the welcoming attitude toward gay tourists may not be as pervasive toward Thais themselves.
If the parliament approves the bill, Thailand will join Taiwan as the only places in Asia that provide elements of legal equality for same-sex couples. Taiwan’s Legislature passed a same-sex marriage law last year.