Mark Gooding, the British Ambassador to Thailand, and Remco van Wijingaarden, the Netherlands Ambassador, share their experiences at the Bangkok Post Pride Every Day forum on Wednesday at Lido Connect. (Photo: Somchai Poomlard)
Despite Thailand’s tremendous success in passing the same-sex marriage bill, the nation still needs to focus on other LGBTQ+ issues to ensure continuous equality and pride. This powerful message came from two ambassadors to Thailand — Mark Gooding of the United Kingdom and Remco van Wijingaarden of the Netherlands — during the Bangkok Post Pride Every Day forum. Both the UK and the Netherlands had enacted similar laws long before Thailand stepped up as a leader in Southeast Asia.
At the forum held on Wednesday at Lido Connect Hall in Siam Square, the diplomats shared their insights and experiences. Both gentlemen agreed that while passing such bills is a great achievement, it is only a starting point. They emphasized that Thailand still has much to do to ensure LGBTQ+ individuals can enjoy full rights and legal protections.
Mr. Gooding illuminated the audience about the UK’s journey, mentioning that even after the passage of the Marriage Equality Bill in 2013, which took effect in 2014, the LGBTQ+ community in the UK still faces numerous challenges. He stressed the importance of embodying inclusion every day, not just during the Pride month in June. “Marriage equality is an essential step towards equality, but in the UK, we need to focus on daily discrimination, homophobic bullying in schools, access to healthcare for LGBTQ+ individuals, and hate crimes,” Mr. Gooding shared. “Pride is not limited to June. The focus needs to be constant.”
He added that Thailand passing the marriage equality bill is a major step forward, but the next focus should be on implementing it effectively. All sectors must collaborate to foster equality because it requires a multi-sectoral dialogue. “Equal marriage legislation is fantastic, but passing the legislation is not the end. The key is implementing it so people benefit from it without being delayed by paperwork,” he emphasized.
Furthermore, Mr. Gooding expressed his delight that Thailand would join the Equal Rights Coalition (ERC) as the 44th country in the framework. The ERC is a coalition where countries exchange views and discuss promoting LGBTQ+ rights globally. “Thailand is now a leader in Southeast Asia in passing the equal marriage law, and there’s much more we can accomplish together. Many places face serious setbacks in LGBTQ+ rights, as well as other rights, including women’s rights. We need to work collaboratively to ensure international human rights are protected,” he said.
Highlighting the Dutch perspective, Mr. Wijingaarden reminded everyone that the Netherlands was the first country in the world to pass same-sex marriage legislation in 2001. However, that was only the initial step in achieving equality. The law needed to be translated into various areas such as adoption law, social security, insurance, and inheritance.
Even though acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand is considerably high, challenges still remain, he said. Sharing insights from his home country, Mr. Wijingaarden stated that transgender individuals still face major obstacles. In many nations, LGBTQ+ people are at high risk of struggling with mental health problems and other issues. “Equal marriage applies to more than just gay and bisexual individuals; it includes the entire LGBTQ+ community. The challenges faced are not only specific to the Netherlands but are widespread globally,” he explained.
He noted that the passing of the bill would bring joy to LGBTQ+ communities in Thailand, acting as a reminder that marriage is about two individuals who love each other coming together. It would also enhance Thailand’s reputation and attract more foreign investments, especially from companies prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). “I hope communities and their allies in Thailand will continue to address societal issues to ensure equality is achieved. In the Netherlands, we celebrate Pride in August, and it serves as a constant reminder that achieving equality is a long-term process,” Mr. Wijingaarden said.
He concluded by highlighting the importance of Thailand’s participation in the ERC. This platform allows countries to exchange their views, especially at the government level, on ensuring greater inclusivity. “Equality encompasses more than just the right to marry; it’s about how the government protects you,” he noted.
It’s fantastic that Thailand is making such significant progress in LGBTQ+ rights. Many countries could learn from them!
Yes, but passing a law doesn’t mean instant change. The real work starts now.
Absolutely, Dave. But you can’t deny that passing the bill is a huge step forward.
Also, cultural acceptance is another hurdle. Legal progress doesn’t always mean societal progress.
Thailand’s bill is a step in the right direction, but why can’t more countries in Southeast Asia follow suit?
True, but every country has its own socio-political landscape. You can’t expect rapid changes everywhere.
Let’s not forget that even in socially progressive nations, there are pockets of extreme resistance.
I think international coalitions like the ERC are crucial for global progress on LGBTQ+ rights. We need more of these collaborations.
The real question is whether Thailand can effectively implement this legislation. Passing a law is one thing, but ensuring it works is another.
Agreed, Peter. Bureaucratic red tape can often delay the benefits reaching the people who need them most.
Exactly, David. It’s all about execution. Let’s hope Thailand makes it work efficiently.
It’s inspiring to see the Netherlands still leading by example even after so many years of legalizing same-sex marriage.
I feel the focus should also be on mental health support for LGBTQ+ individuals. Legal rights are great, but mental well-being is equally important.
Absolutely, Mike. Mental health issues in the LGBTQ+ community are often overlooked.
I’m glad to see Thailand joining the ERC. International cooperation is essential.
But will this really make a difference? International coalitions talk a lot but do very little sometimes.
That’s a fair concern, grower134. However, it can foster shared learning and collaboration.
The real challenge, as mentioned, is going to be in areas like adoption law and social security. Those are the true tests of equality.
Hats off to Thailand, but they need to stay vigilant. Social acceptance is a slow process.
True, John. But even in the West, we are fighting similar battles every day.
You’re right, Anna. The struggle for full acceptance is universal.
I wonder how this will affect foreign investments in Thailand. Will companies truly be more likely to invest?
Pride shouldn’t just be a month-long celebration. It should represent continuous efforts for equality.
Yes, Eduardo! Celebrating Pride in multiple months, like in the Netherlands, sounds ideal.
Exactly, Sophia. Continuous advocacy is the key to real change.
It’s crucial how the bill will be executed on the ground. Laws are meaningless if not implemented correctly.
Hearing about the UK’s journey makes me realize how much work is left even after a significant bill is passed.
True, Karen. Challenges like homophobic bullying and hate crimes still plague us.
Yes, Phil. And we need constant vigilance to overcome these issues.
Hope Thailand sets a precedent in Southeast Asia. A focused dialogue is essential.
Maybe we should focus on what’s next beyond marriage equality. What about workplace equality and health rights?
Great point, Hannah. Rights need to be holistic, covering all aspects of life.
It’s great that these forums are taking place. Public discourse is key.
I wish more countries in Asia could follow Thailand’s example. The trajectory of LGBT rights in Asia is interesting to watch.
I think the idea of fostering multi-sectoral dialogue is essential for any real progress.
But will companies and NGOs actually collaborate effectively? That’s the bigger question.
Thailand’s inclusion in organizations like the ERC excites me. More perspectives always enrich discussions.