Recognition of Same-sex Couples and Family Law
Thai law currently does not recognize same-sex marriages, civil unions or domestic partnerships and it is unclear if a same-sex couple or an individual LGBT Thai would be permitted to adopt or have custody of children.
The news of Elton John's civil partnership brought about criticism of the government from the Thai LGBT community, for the lack of such legal recognition in Thai law. Despite the lack of formal legal recognition, Thai same-sex couples tend to be publicly tolerated, especially in the more urban or westernized areas such as Phuket and Pattaya.
In September 2011, the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (a government body) and the Sexual Diversity Network (an NGO) proposed draft legislation on same-sex marriage and were seeking the Thai government's support for the law.
In December 2012, the government formed a committee to draft legislation giving legal recognition for same-sex couples.
Read more about this topic: LGBT Rights In Thailand
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