The central court of Thailand has approved a law that grants same-sex couples the rights to civil partnership, as reported by Reuters. This law, which underwent 400 debates, received approval with 415 votes. Under the new legislation, the definition of partnership is expanded to include any two individuals and is no longer limited to only husband and wife. Same-sex couples will now have the same rights, obligations, and responsibilities, such as legal protection, healthcare benefits, and the ability to adopt children.

The law will take effect within 120 days after receiving the royal endorsement. Once this law is implemented, Thailand will become the 37th country in the world to recognize same-sex unions. Currently, same-sex unions are only legalized in Nepal and certain regions of Taiwan within Asia.

This positive development in Thailand marks an important step forward in promoting equality and inclusivity for same-sex couples.