Thailand Takes Historic Step Towards Same-Sex Marriage Legalization

Thai lawmakers have passed four draft bills on same-sex marriage in their first reading, bringing Thailand closer to legalizing same-sex marriage. The country, known for having one of Asia's most open and visible LGBTQ+ communities, still has laws and institutions that discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals and same-sex couples. The draft legislation received overwhelming support, with all but 11 of the 380 lawmakers present voting in favor. The bills will now be merged into one and further debated and voted on next year. If enacted, Thailand would become the third country in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to recognize same-sex marriage.