By Ayah Elwannas
In one of the most liberal moves yet for a mostly conservative nation known for its tolerance, Thailand's cabinet has approved a draft civil partnership bill to recognize same-sex unions with nearly the same legal rights as heterosexual couples.
If passed by parliament, the legislation would only make Thailand the second country in Asia to register same-sex unions after Taiwan, with couples able to adopt a child and be entitled to inheritance and joint ownership of property. However, partners would not be granted the same State provided financial benefits as heterosexual partnerships.
"The Civil Partnership Bill is an important step for Thai society in promoting equal rights and supporting the rights of same-sex couples to build families and live as partners," Ratchada Thanadirek, a deputy government spokeswoman, announced on social media.
The bill stipulates that one partner must be of Thai origin to legalize the marriage. Initially presented in 2018, the bill was not passed by the previous legislature.
Kittinan Daramadhaj, director of Thailand's Rainbow Sky Association, said the bill fundamentally allowed same-sex couples to marry but abstained from calling it a "marriage," legally defined as being between man and wife.
"What's in a name? It's the content that matters," he said. "'Civil partnership' shouldn't distract from the fact that it's about the legal registration of unions." Kittinan said the bill would "sufficiently alleviate pains and support the human rights of LGBTQ+ people," though acknowledged it would not ensure an entirety of equal rights.
After Wednesday's council meeting, Deputy Government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek said the draft bill, alongside amendments, would be submitted to parliament for their endorsement.
Sources:
Comments