Thailand on Thursday became the first country in Southeast Asia to hold legal same-sex weddings, with 2SLGBTQ+ groups aiming to mark the day with more than 1,000 marriage registrations in one day.

After decades of campaigning by activists, Thailand is the third territory in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage after Taiwan and Nepal, with a new marriage equality law coming into force on Thursday.

On Thursday, Thailand's parliament flew rainbow flags and shopping malls planned big pride events to celebrate the implementation of the new law.

More than 200 couples lined up to say their vows at a mass wedding in a luxury Bangkok retail mall, some in white dresses, others in traditional Thai outfits, Western suits and ceremonial police uniforms.

“It's been 17 years now, we met at school and faced many things… we hope to see more equality in the future,” said 33-year-old Ploynaplus Chirasukon, posing for a photo with his wife, Kwanporn Kongpetch, after receiving a marriage license.

2SLGBTQ+ groups are hoping to reach 1,448 marriage registrations on Day 1, a symbolic number that refers to the section of the Thai Civil Code where the key change changed the words husband and wife to “husband”.

Organizers, along with related agencies, plan to collect numbers across the country and submit a bid to the Guinness Book of Records to recognize Thailand as having the most same-sex marriages in the world in one day.

“One-four-four-eight symbolizes the fight for marriage rights for all genders. It represents the dream and hope of building an inclusive society that accepts and celebrates love in all its forms,” ​​said the group 2SLGBTQ+ Bangkok Pride.

According to the government, the country's district offices and Thai embassies abroad are also open for marriage registration.

“Marriage equality has really been made possible by the power of everyone,” said former prime minister Sreeta Thavisin, who was prime minister when the landmark legislation was passed. last year

He marked the day as “close to the hearts of many Thais”.

Legal analysts say the new same-sex marriage law will create more momentum for greater inclusion of 2SLGBTQ+ people in Thailand, which has long been known for its carnival-like pride events and community tolerance.

However, other regulations, such as building a legally recognized family, remain a challenge for some couples.

“Ready for change”

The definition of family as the father is a man and the mother is a woman remains in the Thai legal code.

Bangkok Pride organizer Adcharaporn Thongchalaem said Thursday's rush to register marriages was about recognition, not registrations.

“This event shows that many LGBT couples want this (marriage) certificate. It is a symbol that Thailand is ready for change towards equality. Same-sex marriage is only the first step,” Adcharaporn said.