Thailand is entering a period of significant change as the Marriage Equality law is set to take effect on January 23, 2025. This shift will not only grant legal rights to same-sex couples but also have positive social impacts, particularly in family stability, mental health, and reducing societal discrimination. 

Save the Children Thailand highlights three key areas of positive impact from the Marriage Equality law that society should recognize and support comprehensively: 

1. Reducing Mental Health Issues Among LGBTQI+ Children and Youth 

The 2023 report “Mental Health and Well-being of Children and Youth with Diverse Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Thailand,” conducted by Save the Children Thailand in collaboration with Thammasat University and Srinakharinwirot University, surveyed over 3,000 children and youth aged 15–24 across the country. 

The findings reveal that among the 3,094 LGBTQI+ respondents, 71% reported symptoms of depression (18% at a severe level), 78% experienced anxiety (21% at a severe level), 25% engaged in self-harm, and 15% had attempted suicide due to societal pressures, violence, and discrimination. The Equal Marriage Law could foster greater societal acceptance of LGBTQI+ individuals, contributing to a friendlier and safer environment for children and youth. 

High school students from Bangkok schools collaborating with Save the Children believe that equal marriage reduces societal pressures on LGBTQI+ individuals, encouraging them to express their true selves in a safer environment. They also emphasized that support from the Ministry of Education, such as revising rules on hairstyles and school uniforms, could promote equality and boost students’ self-confidence. 

2. Ensuring Stability for LGBTQI+ Families 

Marriage equality provides legal guarantees for various rights, such as inheritance, ensuring that children in LGBTQI+ families are protected in cases of unforeseen circumstances involving their guardians. The law also allows same-sex partners to make medical decisions for their children without legal complications regarding their parental status. Moreover, in cases of separation, the law can clearly outline parental rights and responsibilities, reducing legal complexities. These provisions contribute to a stable family environment, helping children grow up in a supportive and secure setting. 

Parents express mixed opinions. Some see the law as a positive step, believing that everyone should have the right to choose their life path and find happiness. They see the law as a way to improve understanding and strengthen family relationships. However, some families may struggle to accept their children’s identities, highlighting the need for urgent education and awareness for parents in all households. The law’s implementation in some areas remains limited, with continued bullying among children reflecting the need for greater societal effort in fostering acceptance. 

3. Reducing Discrimination and Promoting Equality in Society 

Marriage equality has the potential to reduce societal discrimination, particularly in schools and workplaces. The report indicates that 75% of LGBTQI+ youth have experienced mockery, and 36% have faced bullying in schools. The law can shift societal attitudes, reduce stigmatization, and promote acceptance of diversity, fostering equality in schools and workplaces and cultivating a culture of respect for differences. 

Teachers view the Equal Marriage Law as a chance to encourage children and youth to understand the value of love without gender restrictions, a fundamental basis for building a society that embraces diversity and equality. 

Porsch-Apivat Aphiwatseree and Arm-Sappanyu Panatakul, a famous same-sex couple from a popular Thai series who recently wed in January, commented, “The law opens the door for society to accept and provide opportunities for everyone to love safely and with dignity. Over time, attitudes and practices toward children raised in LGBTQI+ families will evolve. These children can grow up in warmth and safety, knowing their families are equally dignified. After the Equal Marriage Law is enacted, we hope schools and communities will treat children from LGBTQI+ families equally, with understanding and acceptance that any capable family can raise children with quality, regardless of the parents’ gender. The law ensures equal care and protection for all families.” 

Guillaume Rachou, Executive Director of Save the Children Thailand, stated, “The real challenge following the enactment of Marriage Equality in Thailand is encouraging society to adapt and fully embrace diversity. Legislation alone is not enough to shift attitudes and behaviors at a societal level. We need supplementary measures, such as training teachers, students, and parents about sexual and gender diversity, to foster knowledge, understanding, and mutual respect. Additionally, revising school uniform regulations and addressing discrimination in schools and workplaces will help create a more inclusive environment. This effort requires collaboration between government agencies, schools, and civil society to ensure the law creates meaningful, positive impacts on the daily lives of children and families.” 

Marriage equality is more than a structural legal change; it lays the foundation for embracing diversity and allowing all types of families to thrive in a society that values equality and mutual respect. Achieving true equality requires collective effort across all sectors to bring about meaningful changes in everyday life for all Thai citizens. 

Save the Children Thailand recognizes the cultural and belief-based differences in some areas where diverse SOGIESC may not yet be fully accepted. The organization remains committed to the importance of the Marriage Equality law while respecting diverse cultures and beliefs across communities. Save the Children strives to adapt its approach to promote equality in society constructively and thoughtfully. 

Read the report "Mental Health and Well-being of Children and Youth with Diverse Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Thailand": https://resourcecentre.savethechildren.net/document/study-report-mental-health-and-well-being-of-children-and-youth-with-diverse-sogiesc-in-thailand/