Cover photo: Srettha Thavisin's FB page

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has pledged to support the Marriage Equality Bill, which will be sent to the Cabinet next week, and Thailand’s bid to host World Pride 2028.

On 26 October 2023, PM and Finance Minister Srettha chaired a meeting of the relevant government agencies to discuss the Marriage Equality Bill, sex workers' rights, and Thailand’s bid to host World Pride 2028 in Bangkok.

Following the meeting, Srettha confirmed to the media his intention to have the Cabinet deliberate the Marriage Equality Bill in its meeting next Tuesday.

The PM also mentioned that he would establish a special committee to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness to be the host of World Pride with the government’s full support.

Srettha posted a message on Facebook expressing his personal support for gender equality because he believes that everyone should have equal rights, regardless of their gender.

Ha said the Gender Recognition Act and new law on prostitution are under urgent consideration.

“I have ordered the establishment of a working committee to promote gender equality issues and support for Thailand to host World Pride 2028”, Srettha wrote.

Meanwhile, MP Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat from the Move Forward Party(MFP) stated that she was pleased that the PM will propose the Marriage Equality Bill in the upcoming cabinet meeting. She said the MFP’s Marriage Equality Bill has been submitted to parliament and the public hearing process stipulated in Section 77 of the Constitution has been completed. She urged the relevant agencies to speed up the process since the LGBTQ community eagerly awaits equality.

The MP believes that Thailand has the potential to host World Pride 2028. She noted that in order to make Pride Month a grand celebration for everyone, it should also be celebrated in other provinces to stimulate the economy and increase income for communities.