Thailand's lower house passes bill to legalize same-sex marriage

Thailand's House of Representatives passed a bill on March 27, to legalize same-sex marriage with an overwhelming majority. The final reading resulted in 400 votes in favor, 10 against, and some abstentions. If the Senate approves the bill and it receives the king's endorsement, Thailand will become the first Southeast Asian country to recognize same-sex marriages. Previously, only Taiwan and Nepal had legalized gay marriage in Asia. The bill amends the Civil and Commercial Code by changing the terms "men and women" and "husband and wife." However, it still needs Senate approval before being published in the Royal Gazette and becoming law after 60 days. Sources may vary slightly regarding the exact number of votes or abstentions but all agree on the passage of the bill with a large majority.