On Thursday 26 September, the European Union congratulated Thailand following the adoption of the Marriage Equality Act, which provides for equal recognition of relationships for same-sex couples.
“Thailand's steady progress in embracing diversity, promoting equality and standing for love and acceptance establishes a positive example in the region”, the European External Action Service (EEAS) said in a statement.
By adopting this law, the country becomes the third country in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to recognise same-sex unions, and the very first country in South-East Asia.
At bilateral level, the commitment to non-discrimination, equality between men and women and respect for human rights is enshrined in the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) between the EU and Thailand (see EUROPE 13014/19).
The EU encourages the country to continue to defend and advance the fundamental right to freedom of expression and looks forward to further strengthening its relations within the framework of the PCA on issues of human rights and pluralism. (Original version in French by Pauline Denys)