What in the World cover image

What in the World

How Thailand’s same-sex marriage law could impact South East Asia

Nov 21, 2024
Panisa Aemocha, a BBC Thai journalist based in Bangkok, sheds light on Thailand's groundbreaking legalization of same-sex marriage, the first in Southeast Asia. She discusses the rights now granted to LGBTQ+ couples, including adoption and inheritance. The cultural significance of boy love and girl love series in Thai media is explored, alongside the activism that spurred this change. Aemocha also examines how this milestone could influence LGBTQ rights in neighboring countries, considering both supportive and conservative reactions.
12:28

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Thailand's legalization of same-sex marriage grants LGBTQ+ couples equal rights in essential areas like adoption and medical decisions, marking a historic shift in society.
  • The popularity of boy love and girl love dramas has played a crucial role in shaping positive attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals and tourism in Thailand.

Deep dives

Thailand's Marriage Equality Milestone

Thailand has made significant strides toward marriage equality by legalizing same-sex marriage, providing same-sex couples with equal rights in areas such as adoption, inheritance, and medical decisions. This change is the result of over two decades of activism, with the law benefiting from a shift in public opinion towards greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in Thai society. The new legislation allows individuals of any gender to marry, reflecting a broader definition than previous laws, which specified male and female. As a result, same-sex partners can now legally handle medical emergencies for their spouses and share tax benefits, fostering a sense of inclusion and legal recognition that has long been sought after by activists and the community alike.

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