As the Thai government aims to support gender equality and create an environment that nurtures diversity for all, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is vigorously working to move Thailand toward becoming a top “LGBTQ+ Friendly Destination.”
Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke quoted the Prime Minister as saying that the Government is committed to empowering all citizens, regardless of age, gender, religion, nationality, or social status, and that Thailand, as a tourism hub, is ready to welcome all groups of tourists from around the world.
He said that the public and private sectors are preparing to organize various activities to celebrate Pride Month in Thailand in June 2024. It is expected that more than 860,000 people will take part in events scheduled in several destinations in celebration of gender diversity.
For instance, Chiang Mai started the month-long celebration on 25 May, with the “Chiang Mai Colorful Pride Festival” being held until 30 June. Activities include LGBTQ+ parades, concerts, and art exhibitions.
The Bangkok Pride Festival 2024 is scheduled for 31 May – 4 June under the theme “Celebration of Love.” Activities include forums, concerts, and drag performances.
On Ko Samui, Surat Thani, the “Pride Nation Samui International Festival” under the theme “Let’s Join PRIDEradise” is scheduled for 24-29 June. The Pride parade and music festival will take place on 29 June at Chaweng Beach.
The Government Spokesperson said that these events would generate over 4.5 billion baht in circulation and promote Thailand as a “Pride Friendly Destination.” Thailand will also host World Pride in 2030.
The Government takes pride in advocating for a same-sex marriage law under the Gender Equality Act. This law aims to provide equal protection and rights to all marital pairs, whether they are male-female, male-male, or female-female couples, in all aspects, including the right to adopt children and to have state benefits according to marital status. This reflects that Thailand has taken a significant step toward guaranteeing the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) persons. (PRD)
