By Artorn Pookasook and Juarawee Kittisilpa
BANGKOK (Reuters) – Thai lesbian couple Vorawan “Beaut” Ramwan and Anticha “An” Sangchai are patiently ready for the passage of their nation’s same-sex marriage regulation in order that they will cement their relationship after 4 years collectively.
“Once the law comes into effect, we will sign our marriage license,” stated Anticha, a college lecturer. “We’ve been waiting for this for a long time.”
The wedding equality invoice is anticipated to cross by its last studying in Thailand’s higher home of parliament on Tuesday, stated Wallop Tangkananuruk, chairman of the senate committee for the invoice.
It would then be despatched to the king for approval and are available into power 120 days after being printed within the Royal Gazette, making Thailand the third territory in Asia after Taiwan and Nepal to legalise same-sex marriage.
The Southeast Asian nation, identified for its vibrant cultural scene and tolerance, has lengthy been a well-liked vacation spot for LGBTQ+ travellers.
1000’s of LGBTQ+ revellers and activists gathered for a parade by the streets of Bangkok this month, joined by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who got here wearing a rainbow shirt to have fun Delight Month.
For Anticha and Vorawan, marriage equality represents greater than a ceremony. It’s a marker that their relationship is recognised and granted the identical authorized protections as heterosexual {couples}, they stated.
“The passage of this law is a (social) movement, pushing the boundaries by acknowledging our existence, ” Anticha stated.
The regulation additionally formalises their capability to take care of each other legally, stated Vorawan.
“It would give us a more sense of security for our lives,” stated the 32-year-old nurse. “It’s something that we’ve never had before.”