Keypoints:
- The Thai cabinet earlier this year approved a Civil Partnership Bill that would recognise same-sex unions with almost the same legal rights as married couples.
- Young LGBT+ Thais have also been a big part of ongoing anti-government protests, pressing their demand for equality.
- Among six teams from three southern provinces, many players wore hijab and were cheered on by family in the stands.
Thailand, a largely conservative Buddhist society, is known for its relaxed attitude towards gender and sexual diversity, with homosexuality decriminalised as early as 1956. Yet LGBT+ people face widespread discrimination, particularly outside the country’s capital Bangkok.
Earlier this year, the Thai cabinet approved a Civil Partnership Bill that would recognise same-sex unions with almost the same legal rights as married couples.
The legislation, which is awaiting parliamentary approval, would make Thailand only the second place in Asia to allow registration of same-sex unions, with couples able to adopt children, and with rights to inheritance and property ownership.
LGBT+ Thais are increasingly visible in politics, with last year’s election bringing four LGBT+ first-time lawmakers, as well as the first transgender candidate for prime minister.Young LGBT+ Thais have also been a big part of ongoing anti-government protests, pressing their demand for equality.
“Our goal is equal marriage at the end. But we choose to go step by step – like many other countries have done,” said Nareeluc Pairchaiyapoom, director of the international human rights division in the Ministry of Justice.
Among six teams from three southern provinces, many players wore hijab and were cheered on by family in the stands.
That would have been unthinkable when she was growing up, Anticha said.
“Football is very popular in Thailand, yet not many girls play it – especially Muslim girls, who face more hurdles because many consider it a sin,” said Anticha, a football player, 43, who was raised Buddhist in the Muslim-majority province.
“Playing football allows them to be free, be themselves, and also helps them face up to the bullying and bias they face,” she said, watching a Buku FC team take on a rival team.
Yet LGBT+ people face widespread discrimination, particularly outside the country’s capital Bangkok, and are often rejected by their families, human rights activists say.
She and other LGBT+ campaigners favour an equal marriage law, which the government has shied away from, as it would require a change to the Civil Code to amend the description of marriage, now defined as between a man and a woman.
