Thailand's parliament approves a marriage equality bill on Wednesday, a landmark step that moves one of Asia's most liberal countries closer to becoming its third territory to legalise same-sex unions. It becomes the first in South east Asia to guarantee marriage rights for gay and lesbian couples.
The members of the house of Representatives voted to pass the bill, and had the support of all of the major parties and was more than a decade in the making. It still requires approval from the Senate and endorsement from the king before it becomes law after it is published in the Royal gazette and would take effect 120 days later.
The bill's passage marks a significant step towards cementing Thailand's position as one of Asia's most liberal countries on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, with openness and progressive attitudes coexisting in society alongside traditional, conservative Buddhist values.
Thailand has long been a draw for same-sex couples, with a vibrant and visible LGBT social scene for locals and expatriates, and targeted campaigns to attract LGBT travellers.
