Thailand celebrates first same-sex marriages

These couples are getting married. It's the first day of same-sex marriage in Thailand.

It's OK to be an LGBTQ+ person in Thailand. But in the past, gay couples couldn't marry. It took a long time to change the rules. Now, actor Sappanyoo 'Arm' Panatkool can finally marry his partner.

"So today, today, finally comes true. And we fought for it for decades. And, today is a remarkable day that, love is love. We can, we allowed to have love as a normal people."

The rules on marriage weren't easy to change. Young people pushed for change. In 2020, they went into the streets. Same-sex marriage became a popular idea. Then, politicians changed the rules.

The rules about marriage are part 1448 of the Thai Civil code. People wanted 1448 weddings on the first day of the new rules. The rules make marriage for everyone. Everyone can share their money and houses. Everyone can have children.

Chayapa Rattanakewil's a government school teacher. Government jobs often have good contracts. In the past, Rattanakewil couldn't share these advantages with her partner. Now she can, and she's very happy.

"I think now is the moment [for same-sex marriage]. Because civil servants have some benefits and we should have been allowed to use them [for our partner]. I want the best for my partner, so I'd like to share my benefits with her. It's the best kind of equality."

Thailand's the third country in Asia with same-sex marriage rules.

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