In a monumental step forward, Thailand's Senate passed the Marriage Equality Bill, making it the first Southeast Asian country to recognise same-sex marriage. The upper house approved the bill with 130 votes in favour, four against, and 18 abstentions out of 152 members present, indicating overwhelming support. The bill now awaits King Maha Vajiralongkorn's endorsement before it becomes law. It will take effect 120 days after being published in the Royal Gazette. This legislation seeks to amend the Civil and Commercial Code, redefining marriage from "a man and a woman" to "two individuals" and updating legal terms from "husband and wife" to "married couple." This legislative shift will enable Thailand to recognise the marriages of partners of any gender aged 18 and older, extending comprehensive rights that include inheritance, equal access to various tax savings, and eligibility for adoption rights, ensuring a broad spectrum of legal equality and protection. With this development, Thailand will become the third Asian country to embrace marriage equality, joining Taiwan (2019) and Nepal (2023). The right to marry and form a family is enshrined in Article 23 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Thailand ratified in 1996. Various human rights organisations have affirmed that the concept of "family" in international human rights law does not need to adhere to a single model. Our Member Association, the Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand (PPAT), has been pivotal in advocating for this milestone for over a decade. Collaborating with partners such as the Equal Marriage Law Committee, the National Youth Council, the Department of Rights, Liberties & Protection, and the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand (RSAT), PPAT has tirelessly championed this cause. In exclusive interviews, representatives from these organisations discuss the landmark decision's societal and legal impacts and the challenges ahead. Transforming Access: PPAT's Comprehensive Approach to SRHR “PPAT has always been at the forefront of this advocacy, implementing projects to raise awareness about gender equality and providing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to all, with a special focus on the LGBTQIA+ community. Efforts include engaging lawmakers, participating in public hearings, and utilising platforms to raise public awareness, reaching thousands of young people,” said Dr. Nanthakan S. Woodham, Executive Director of the Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand (PPAT). PPAT’s active involvement in the marriage equality bill’s technical committee since 2018 underscores their commitment to focusing on grassroots initiatives and reaching remote areas in Thailand. This effort brought services and awareness to marginalised communities, ensuring necessary care, information, and mass base support. Additionally, PPAT worked extensively with youth, educating them about their sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) through the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Collaborating with civil society organisations and the Ministry of Public Health, they addressed SRHR at multiple levels. Over the past three years (2021-2023), PPAT provided clinical SRH services to an average of 50,360 clients annually through static and mobile clinics and outreach services, demonstrating their initiatives' extensive reach and impact. Providing accurate information and SRH services to those excluded due to nationality or immigration status, such as refugees and migrant workers, is essential. “Equal care and support for these groups are necessary. Societal shifts and equitable healthcare access must complement legislative changes to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future,” Dr Nanthakan S. Woodham emphasised. Key Populations in Focus: A Cross-Sectional Approach “Ending discrimination and protecting LGBTQIA+ rights demand tackling cross-sectional issues: sexual and reproductive rights, social security, and health system reforms,” says Kittinun Daramadhaj, President of the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand (RSAT) and Chairperson of the LGBTQIA+ Community Advisory Board in Thailand. This comprehensive approach is vital for creating an inclusive society where everyone can thrive. He added that close collaboration with the Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand (PPAT) ensures that vulnerable groups, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, have access to critical healthcare services. Sustainable progress beyond legislation is essential, particularly in advocating for and supporting sex workers, who often face heightened marginalisation and barriers to healthcare. Sex workers in Thailand face fines and imprisonment under the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act of 1996. This absence of legal protection, coupled with stigma and violence, prevents them from reporting abuse or seeking justice, leaving them vulnerable and unable to access essential healthcare services. RSAT is dedicated to advocating for the full rights and equality of LGBTQIA+ communities. Their work is crucial in HIV prevention and treatment programs, especially given the high prevalence rates: 1% among sex workers, 8% among people who use drugs, 11% among transgender women, and 12% among men who have sex with men. RSAT’s efforts are vital in reaching and supporting these key populations affected by HIV. Mapping Progress: Equal Marriage Law Committee "This legislative shift marks a significant step for Thai society in promoting equal rights by enabling the recognition of marriages between partners of any gender aged 18 and older. It extends comprehensive rights, including inheritance and adoption eligibility, ensuring broad legal equality and protection, paving the way for a more inclusive future for all,” says Kanasit Puangampai, a member of the Equal Marriage Law Committee, House of Representatives Thailand. The parliamentary committee undertook extensive consultations and held numerous sessions to consolidate draft bills into a comprehensive Marriage Equality Bill. This collaborative approach aimed to provide equal legal recognition and protection for all citizens, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Thailand's journey toward marriage equality has been long and arduous, spanning over a decade. This significant legislation faced numerous setbacks, primarily due to political upheaval and debates over the best approaches and specific provisions to be included in the bill. Despite these challenges, the relentless efforts of advocates and supporters have finally led to its passage. In 2020, the Constitutional Court upheld the existing marriage law, which recognised only heterosexual unions, but recommended expanding it to protect the rights of all genders. This crucial recommendation laid the groundwork for developing the marriage equality bill. Advancing Human Rights: Marriage Equality and Anti-Discrimination “We conducted extensive studies on the legal aspects, drawing from international examples. Our approach included raising awareness nationwide through local and regional consultations. The draft law received public comments online, and we received multiple rounds of civil society feedback before submitting a comprehensive summary to the parliamentary committee,” says Nareeluc Pairchaiyapoom, Director of the International Human Rights Division, Department of Rights & Liberties Protection, Ministry of Justice, Thailand. The push for same-sex marriage rights in Thailand gained significant attention in 2012 when a same-sex couple in Chiang Mai, known for their LGBTQIA+ advocacy, attempted to register their marriage. The registrar rejected their application, citing the lack of legal recognition for same-sex marriages in Thai law. This sparked widespread discussion and led the couple to petition several government agencies, initiating legal reforms aimed at securing marriage rights for same-sex couples. Initially, efforts focused on a civil union bill, separate from the marriage equality bill. Observing similar movements in other countries where civil unions served as a step toward full marriage equality, the Human Rights Division adapted its strategy accordingly. Building on this momentum, Nareeluc Pairchaiyapoom explained, “Our next steps include pushing for an anti-discrimination bill to eliminate all forms of discrimination, including those based on gender, disability, and ethnicity. With significant input from civil society, this will ensure that the fight for equal rights continues and advances the progress made with the marriage equality bill.” Empowering LGBTQIA+ Youth: Legal Reforms and Health Access "This landmark moment celebrates the tireless work of activists. Moving forward, it's crucial to ensure LGBTQIA+ youth, especially those in hard-to-reach areas, have equal access to health services and prioritise comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), empowering a generation that embraces diversity and inclusion," emphasised Yothin Yuakkhaowdee, a youth activist. According to a new national survey by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), while there are generally favourable attitudes towards LGBTIQA+ people in Thailand, many still face persistent experiences of stigma, discrimination, violence, and exclusion. "We collaborate on grassroots projects to facilitate LGBTQIA+ youth access to essential sexual and reproductive health services. Legalising same-sex marriage will enhance social acceptance and visibility, reducing stigma and discrimination to foster a more inclusive society," noted Nada Binrorheem, President of the National Youth Council of Thailand. The impact on youth is profound. Improved access to sexual and reproductive health services empowers young people to make informed decisions about their health, ensuring they can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Read our press statement: IPPF ESEAOR Welcomes Thailand's Historic Step Towards Marriage Equality in Southeast Asia. Our social media series, Voices of Progress can be accessed HERE For more information, contact: Malarvili Meganathan,  Regional Communications, Voice & Media Advisor, [email protected]> Photo Credits: Florence Lee/IPPF ESEAOR/Bangkok, Thailand

Love wins! The fight for marriage equality has seen incredible progress worldwide, with a recent surge in legalizations. Across the world, 36 out of 195 countries have legalized equal marriage: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Uruguay. In 2023, three new countries legalized same-sex marriage (Andorra, Estonia and Slovenia), and three more solidified legislative progress towards decriminalizing same-sex unions: a Japanese court ruled it is unconstitutional for the nation not to legally recognize same-sex unions. And the Supreme Courts of Nepal and Namibia recognized marriages of same-sex couples registered abroad. So marriage equality marches on! Already in 2024, two more countries have said "I do" to equal rights. According to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, even more countries could legalize equal marriage in 2024. In particular, the Czech Republic, India, Japan, Nepal and Philippines show signs of growing support for marriage equality. The fight for marriage equality isn't over, but the momentum is undeniable. IPPF stands with those working to make love win everywhere.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally. About 90% of the 342,000 deaths caused by cervical cancer occurred in low- and middle-income countries. The highest rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality are in sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and South-East Asia. Regional differences in the cervical cancer burden are related to inequalities in access to vaccination, screening, and treatment services. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. HPV is mainly transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, including skin-to-skin genital contact. Most HPV infections are self-limiting and can be cleared by the immune system. However, if the infection persists, it may lead to precancerous cervical lesions or even cervical cancer. For individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with poorly controlled HIV infection, the risk of developing cervical cancer is significantly higher. A comprehensive report on the progress of cervical cancer elimination in the region, released by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Health Working Group, reveals that APEC economies account for approximately 38% of new cases and 35% of global deaths. Data from the report indicate that most APEC economies are furthest along in meeting targets for cervical cancer treatment. The report builds on the 2021 roadmap, which sets policy targets for member economies to bolster health capacity and enable women and girls to lead healthy and productive lives. While a majority of the countries have adopted strategies for the elimination of cervical cancer, ranging from comprehensive programs to specific interventions within broader cancer strategies, there are still notable gaps in implementation. This recognises the need for multistakeholder collaborations, in line with the World Health Organization’s global strategy for cancer elimination. Contributing towards eliminating cervical cancer is a core part of IPPF’s mandate. IPPF adopted a Cervical Cancer Strategy 2020–2024 to ensure women, girls, and affected populations can access cervical cancer information and services, strengthen health equity, address stigma, and challenge harmful social/gender norms that create barriers to accessing timely and high-quality services. Our Member Associations in the ESEAOR region are dedicated to preventing, treating, and eliminating cervical cancer. Here, we highlight the incredible work of some of our Member Associations:  

According to the World Prison Brief's assessment in May 2022, Indonesia holds the 21st highest prison occupancy rate globally, with prisons and correctional institutions operating at a 208% occupancy rate. This statistic positions Indonesia as the fourth most overcrowded nation in Asia in terms of prison population density. Overcrowding in prisons significantly amplifies the challenges those behind bars face and is further exacerbated by the absence of national-level regulations. Among the most vulnerable in these settings are women, girls, and young individuals, particularly those who are pregnant, nursing, or have specific healthcare needs. A lack of comprehensive healthcare services within these facilities leaves significant gaps in providing essential care.  The Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association (IPPA), an IPPF Member Association (MA), is leading the way in advancing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for incarcerated individuals across the country. IPPA has established strategic partnerships in more than ten regions, formalised through Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). These collaborations include the IPPA Aceh Chapter, IPPA West Sumatera Chapter, and IPPA Riau Islands Chapter, among others, serving over 3000 clients. These collaborations encompass a broad spectrum of services, including SRH education, HIV and STI testing, counselling, and ensuring access to affordable sanitary products and mental health support. IPPA also strongly emphasises providing contraceptive services, specialised counselling facilities, cancer screenings, and prenatal care. Through the RESPOND project, IPPA is dedicated to addressing the immediate SRH needs of incarcerated individuals while striving to establish a comprehensive framework that promotes their overall health and well-being. Eko Maryadi, Executive Director of IPPA, highlights that with the generous support of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Australia, reproductive health services have been expanded across 25 IPPA chapters. “Our collaboration with the Department of Corrections and local health agencies is focused on addressing the urgent SRH needs of marginalised communities, particularly women and young people in incarcerated settings. By bridging the gaps in the national SRHR landscape, we prioritise underserved groups and ensure they receive the essential health services they deserve,” he said.  Egy, who actively participated in an awareness session organised by IPPA at a Kalimantan Prison, shared her experience. “The cancer screening awareness session was eye-opening for me. It made me realise the importance of regular health check-ups. Getting my first pap smear highlighted how crucial it is for us in prison to access essential healthcare services. It's an integral part of our overall well-being." Rita, who received medical care at a Jakarta prison, shared similar sentiments. "I used to dismiss my symptoms as minor discomfort. However, the information I received during an awareness session with the friendly IPPA medical team made me rethink this. It led to the discovery of uterine fibroids, and I promptly received treatment. Many of us lack information about our health. Focusing on education and raising awareness, particularly about conditions that often go unnoticed, can be life-changing," she said. In a nation where the total prison population exceeds 270,000, the urgency of addressing the dire state of SRHR within Indonesia's overcrowded prisons cannot be overstated. Incarcerated individuals often fall through the cracks of the national healthcare system, making IPPA's services more crucial than ever. For more information, contact:  Malarvili Meganathan,  Regional Communications, Voice & Media Advisor, [email protected]

In the bustling province of Battambang, Cambodia, the LGBTQ+ community encounters significant barriers, including enduring stigma, discrimination, and a lack of sensitivity and understanding among healthcare providers when accessing clinical services for their sexual and reproductive health needs. Additionally, transgender individuals face numerous legal and social discriminations due to the absence of explicit legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) within the employment, health, and education sectors. Navigating the healthcare system has left many within the community with fears and reluctance to seek care, leading to a decline in their overall well-being. Recognising the need to bridge the healthcare gap and build trust within the LGBTQ+ community over time, the Reproductive Health Association of Cambodia (RHAC), an IPPF Member Association, rises to the challenges. Under the RESPOND project, RHAC takes a proactive stance in dismantling stigma and improving access to clinical services for the LGBTQ+ community, especially transgender individuals in Battambang. Their multi-faceted approach encompasses education, advocacy, counselling, and specialised care. 

Located in the bustling heart of Iloilo City is the RAJAH Community Centre, a dynamic hub with a meaningful mission. RAJAH stands for "Raising Awareness for Junior Advocates on HIV." Established in 2019 by the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines (FPOP), this centre provides a safe space for HIV testing and support services, free from stigma.  The centre provides counselling and a range of supportive initiatives tailored to its diverse community. What sets this centre apart from other HIV diagnostic and treatment facilities is its unique operational model, primarily driven by volunteers. Many of these volunteers are part of the LGBTIQ+ communities they serve.  Mona Liza S. Diones, the Chapter Program Manager of FPOP Iloilo, noted that a significant number of potential clients still hesitate due to fears associated with visiting a treatment facility. “At RAJAH, we're working to change this perception by providing essential services that promote comfort and eliminate prejudice.”  The centre is a crucial service point that complements existing facilities run by local government units. In partnership with the Department of Health, it provides continuous HIV services, including telemedicine, mobile clinics, and the distribution of essential items such as PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and condoms. PrEP is an oral pill that reduces the risk of contracting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken correctly. Onsite HIV testing is available for individuals aged 15 and above, following the guidelines of the HIV and AIDS Policy Act in the Philippines, which allows those between 15 to 18 to access testing without parental or guardian consent.  As of January 2023, the Philippines recorded 110,736 cases of HIV. The number of people with HIV is projected to rise by 200%, from 158,400 in 2022 to 364,000 by 2030.