The leader of the Move Forward Party has pledged to bring back a bill that seeks to legalise same-sex marriage in Thailand. Pita Limjaroenrat posted on Facebook to say once in power, his government will also push for a number of other gender equality issues.
“Once we can form a government, we will push for the passage of the marriage equality bill within 100 days. It is also part of a memorandum of understanding signed by members of the coalition.”
The Move Forward Party has entered into a coalition with 7 other parties with which it signed an MoU on May 22. Included in the MoU is a promise to pass the stalled marriage equality bill and improve gender equality.
“Every person has human dignity and is equal before the law. They must have equal access to public services without discrimination because of their gender, race, belief, education, age, and disabilities.”
The Bangkok Post reports that MFP MP Parit Wacharasindhu says the new government has plans not only to promote gender equality, but to ensure members of the LGBTQ+ community are also eligible for various financial, tax, and inheritance benefits.
Through the marriage equality bill, the new administration plans to amend Section 1448 of Thailand’s Civil and Commercial Code, which defines marriage as being between a man and a woman.
The bill did pass a first reading in June of last year but its second reading was stalled for various reasons, including House meetings being repeatedly cancelled due to a lack of quorum. The bill was then suspended further in February of this year, when the House’s final session ended.
SOURCE: Bangkok Post
