Thailand made history on Tuesday by becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage following a landmark parliamentary vote.
The Senate overwhelmingly passed the bill, which now awaits royal assent before becoming law in 120 days after publication in the official Royal Gazette.
Thailand will join Taiwan and Nepal as only the third country in Asia where same-sex marriage is legal.
Activists are hopeful that the first weddings could take place as early as October.
Under the new law, same-sex couples will enjoy equal rights to adoption and inheritance, similar to heterosexual couples.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, a strong supporter of the LGBTQ community who championed the bill, will host celebrations at his official residence for activists and supporters.
Thailand has a reputation for being tolerant towards the LGBTQ community, with local opinion polls indicating strong public support for marriage equality.
Globally, over 30 countries have legalized marriage for all since the Netherlands first approved same-sex unions in 2001.
In Asia, only Taiwan and Nepal have recognized it, with India nearing a decision in October, pending Parliament’s decision.
However, some activists have criticized the new law for not accommodating transgender and non-binary people, who will still be unable to change their gender on official identity documents.
