The Dynamics of the Marriage Equality Movement in Thailand: Resource Mobilization, Political Opportunities, and Framing

Abstract

This study examines Thailand's marriage equality movement through three key dimensions: resource mobilization, political opportunities, and framing processes, aiming to understand the critical factors that led to legal and social transformation. The research employs a qualitative approach, combining document and media analysis from different sources from 2012 to 2025 with in-depth interviews of key informants comprising activists, politicians, and public figures.

Findings reveal that in resource mobilization, the movement achieved multi-dimensional integration, particularly through digital resources via the marriage equality hashtag campaign, cultural resources through BL series and traditional performance arts, and organizational networks encompassing multiple entities, despite financial limitations. Regarding political opportunities, the movement capitalized on government transitions and cross-party alliances, resulting in overwhelming legislative approval from both the House of Representatives and the Senate. In framing processes, the movement innovatively integrated universal human rights frameworks with Thai cultural contexts through strategic framing adapted to different target audiences, contributing to predominantly positive attitudes among Thais toward gender-diverse individuals. This research advances new knowledge in social movement analysis within the Thai context through dynamic theoretical integration, challenges conventional assumptions about resource requirements, and proposes an analytical framework applicable to other movements in the region. Policy recommendations emphasize on comprehensive strategies for LGBTQ+ rights, anti-discrimination protection, and continuous participation of gender-diverse communities in policymaking processes.