6 October 2025 SWING Thailand, in collaboration with APCASO under the REGENERATE Platform, organized the
3rd Action Plan Development Workshop to Discuss and Review the Act Amending the Civil and Commercial Code (No. 24), B.E. 2567 (Marriage Equality)
at the Mandarin Hotel, Rama IV Road, Bangkok.
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This workshop marked an important step in the collective effort to move Marriage Equality forward
from a legal text to real-life practice through collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and LGBTQ+ communities.
The goal: ensuring that equality, dignity, and human rights are realized for everyone in Thai society.
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Collaboration between State and Civil Society
The meeting was chaired by Ms. Nayana Supapung, Project Manager and Legal Advisor from the Foundation for SOGI Rights and Justice (FOR-SOGI).
It provided an open and constructive space for dialogue between representatives from the public sector, academia, and community organizations.
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Participating agencies included:
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Department of Labour Protection and Welfare
Department of Health Service Support, Ministry of Public Health
Department of Children and Youth
Revenue Department
Office of Insurance Commission (OIC)
Faculty of Learning Sciences and Education, Thammasat University
Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University
Bangkok Pride Network
Representatives from SWING Thailand also joined the session as part of the civil society network working on health, rights, and equality for MSM, transgender individuals, and sex workers.
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SWING delegates included:
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Ms. Surang Janyam, Director
Mr. Jamrong Phaengnongyang, Deputy Director
Mr. Arrakorn Somwaeng, Project Officer
Mr. Adirek Ruanpin, Project Coordinator
Ms. Angkana Khandhaprapa, Finance and Accounting Officer
Mr. Siripong Srichua, Strategic Communications Officer
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A platform for diverse voices
The core theme of the workshop focused on revising legal language in the Marriage Equality Act to ensure inclusivity and gender neutrality.
Participants shared perspectives on how the law could reflect the real diversity of relationships in Thai society and provide equal protection for all.
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Key recommendations included:
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Replacing gendered terms such as husbandwife with spouse.
Broadening the legal interpretation of manwoman to include individuals of diverse gender identities (LGBTQ+).
Promoting legal interpretation and enforcement that protect everyone equally, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
The discussion also emphasized the role of strategic communication using public dialogue and positive messaging to increase understanding and reduce stigma.
Open, informed communication was seen as essential to shifting cultural attitudes and building a society that respects diversity.
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Key Takeaways from the Marriage Equality Workshop
1️ Marriage Equality is a fundamental human right.
Recognizing equal marriage is not only about legalizing love but affirming that everyone deserves dignity and equal rights under the law.

2️ Language matters inclusive laws create inclusive societies.
Gender-neutral and inclusive legal terminology helps ensure that laws protect all people and signal societal acceptance of gender diversity.

3️ Collaboration is the heart of change.
True equality cannot be achieved by one sector alone it requires partnership among government, civil society, and academia.

4️ Communication builds understanding and acceptance.
Creating safe spaces for open conversations about love, family, and rights fosters empathy and helps reduce prejudice.
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A small step, a powerful shift
The workshop reflected the shared determination among all sectors to transform Marriage Equality
from a legislative concept into a lived reality a commitment that goes beyond policy, touching peoples everyday lives.
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For SWING Thailand, which has long worked with marginalized communities including MSM, transgender people, and sex workers,
this participation aligns with the organizations core mission: advancing human rights, equality, and respect for diversity.
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Marriage Equality is not just a legal amendment it represents a cultural transformation
where love in all its forms is recognized, and every individual can live with dignity and equality.
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Conclusion
The 3rd Action Plan Development Workshop was more than a policy meeting
it was a collective milestone toward a fairer and more inclusive Thailand.
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By bringing together voices from government, civil society, and academia,
the workshop highlighted that Equality in Law must become Equality in Life.
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SWING Thailand remains committed to working alongside all partners
to ensure that equality, respect, and acceptance become a shared reality for everyone
because a just society begins with understanding and embracing diversity.