Bangkok: Kick Off Marriage Equality, Interior Minister 1 presents flags of love throughout Thailand, congratulates all love in 878 districts, promotes Thailand as the first country in Southeast Asia to accept and use the Marriage Equality Act.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, alongside Ms. Miguel Filbert-Stor©, Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in Thailand, presided over the Kick Off activity. This event symbolically demonstrated Thailand's readiness for marriage equality by distributing flags of love across the nation. The flags were given to governors of all 76 provinces and deputy governors of Bangkok, totaling 77 vehicles, to be displayed in their respective areas. This initiative is part of the Department of Provincial Administration's role as the main agency responsible for registering marriages in all 878 districts, including Bangkok and foreign registry offices. The focus is on ensuring smooth and legal marriage registration for all couples under the Civil and Commercial Code Amendment Act (No. 24) B.E. 2567. The move positions Thailand as a pioneer in Southeast Asia for marriage equality, drawing inspiration from the Netherlands, the first country g lobally to enact such a law.
Mr. Anutin emphasized the partnership between the Ministry of Interior and other agencies, highlighting the strong cooperation with the United Nations and the Thai government in promoting human rights and gender equality. The implementation of the Civil and Commercial Code or the Marriage Equality Act marks a significant step towards guaranteeing equal marriage rights for all. The Ministry of Interior is prepared to legally register marriages for all couples, reinforcing Thailand's commitment to sustainable development and equal marriage rights. The flags distributed today are a symbol of action towards equality and love in every province. Mr. Anutin expressed gratitude to the 11 United Nations organizations supporting the initiative and acknowledged Mr. Settha Thavisin, the former Prime Minister, for his role in making this milestone possible.
Furthermore, Mr. Anutin noted the cooperation from all sectors to ensure sustainable progress in marriage equality. The hope is that these efforts will foster enduring love and equality throughout the nation.
The Department of Provincial Administration, as the principal agency, is preparing personnel to manage marriage registrations from January 23, 2025, onwards. The aim is for personnel to adhere to regulations and laws under the concept of "Equal marriage, happy with all love, 878 districts throughout Thailand."