Bangkok, 13 June 2024 – The Delegation of the European Union and the Embassies of Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States to the Kingdom of Thailand co-hosted a reception during Pride Month at the U.S. Chief of Mission’s Residence in Bangkok on 12 June 2024 with the theme “Pride, Rights, Thrive.” This celebration marks a milestone in Thailand’s human rights progress and underscores the international community's collective commitment to promoting LGBTQI+ rights and inclusivity, including the advancement of marriage equality legislation. In attendance were more than 200 guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, parliamentarians, government officials, civil society organizations, LGBTQI+ activists and youth networks, and dedicated individuals who champion the issue of LGBTQI+ rights in Thailand.

U.S. Ambassador Robert Godec said, "We join together to listen to the voices and needs of civil society and those working to advance the rights of LGBTQI+ persons, taking pride in all that they have accomplished. We applaud Thailand's people and government for progress toward ensuring LGBTQI+ persons have the same rights as anyone else. LGBTQI+ rights are human rights."

Ambassador of the European Union to Thailand David Daly stressed, "LGBTQI+ rights are human rights based on universal values. Equality, freedom, and justice must apply to everyone regardless of their actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity."

Reflecting on the passage of Thailand's Equal Marriage Bill, British Ambassador Mark Gooding noted, "The bill will show Thailand’s commitment to equality and fairness for all its citizens, providing countless couples with legal recognition and protection of their relationships. So let us stand together and be clear that everyone has the right to marry the person they love, no matter their gender."

Australian Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Julia Feeney expressed, "We stand united in our commitment to promoting an inclusive society where all individuals, including from the LGBTQI+ community can live openly and safely. Pride month is a special time to celebrate, particularly here in Thailand where historic progress is being made."

The program featured remarks by the host ambassadors, performances, networking opportunities, and booths showcasing each of the Missions’ civil society partner organizations. The event serves to amplify efforts between the people and government of Thailand and its close partners in advancing LGBTQI+ rights and foster long-lasting networks between the diplomatic missions in Thailand and the LGBTQI+ community.

View a joint statement from the host Chiefs of Mission here:  https://www.facebook.com/EUinThailand/videos/1176953676836508/

#PrideRightsThrive2024