15-5-2024 (BANGKOK) In a pivotal move towards greater inclusivity, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party and chairwoman of the National Committee on Soft Power Development, has thrown her weight behind efforts to enact a law recognizing transgender individuals. This push comes as Thailand sets its sights on securing the right to host the prestigious World Pride event in 2030, underscoring the nation’s commitment to equality and diversity.
Speaking at an event announcing this year’s Pride Month festivities, set to commence on May 31st and continue through June, Ms. Paetongtarn addressed the recent setback in the legislative push for transgender rights. On February 21st, a bill advocating for gender recognition and the rights of transgender people, championed by the main opposition Move Forward Party, was narrowly defeated in a parliamentary vote of 256 to 152, with one abstention.
Acknowledging the controversy surrounding the bill, which was perceived as “extreme” in its content by several opposing MPs during the House debate, Ms. Paetongtarn reaffirmed her party’s long-standing commitment to pushing for equality for all. She emphasized that the Pheu Thai Party’s roots can be traced back to the now-defunct Thai Rak Thai Party, which later evolved into the People Power Party before ultimately transforming into the current Pheu Thai Party, all of which have consistently advocated for better recognition of LGBTQ+ rights.
In a significant milestone, the Pheu Thai-led government successfully spearheaded the passage of the marriage equality law in the House of Representatives on March 27th. This groundbreaking legislation is expected to receive final approval from the Senate and be enacted later this year, marking a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand.
Ms. Paetongtarn’s remarks come as the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) prepares to submit a bid for the right to host World Pride 2030, a prestigious global event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Hosting such a high-profile gathering would not only showcase Thailand’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity but also provide a significant boost to the country’s tourism industry and soft power influence on the global stage.
Saruntorn Asaves of Siam Piwat Co, the operator of the iconic Siam Discovery shopping center, where the Pride Month announcement was made, revealed that a wide range of events and celebrations are being planned for the upcoming month-long festival, further cementing Thailand’s reputation as a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies alike.
As the nation gears up for Pride Month and sets its sights on the World Pride bid, the push for a comprehensive transgender recognition law has taken on renewed urgency. While the recent legislative setback was a temporary hurdle, the unwavering commitment of leaders like Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra and the groundswell of support from various stakeholders underscores Thailand’s determination to ensure equal rights and legal protections for its transgender community.
With the marriage equality law paving the way for further progress, hopes are high that a robust transgender recognition law will soon follow, solidifying Thailand’s position as a bastion of inclusivity and setting the stage for a successful bid to host the world’s premier LGBTQ+ celebration in 2030.
