Thailand's king signs landmark same-sex marriage bill into law

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn has signed a landmark marriage equality bill into law, making the country the third in Asia to recognize same-sex unions. The law, which was passed by parliament in June, uses gender-neutral terms and grants full legal, financial, and medical rights to marriage partners of any gender. Thailand is the first country in Southeast Asia to recognize same-sex unions, and the law will come into effect on January 22, 2024. The move has been hailed as a "monumental step" by activists, who see it as a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in the region.