As Bangkok gears up for the 2025 Pride Festival, agencies are rallying support under the theme “The Celebration: Right to Love,” with a series of events from 30 May to 30 June. The highlight will be the much-anticipated Pride Parade on 1 June.
A press conference on 6 May, featuring co-organizers including the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), shed light on the upcoming festivities.
Pimjai Leeissaranukul, FTI vice president and Creative Industry and Soft Power Institute (Cispi) president, revealed the inspiration behind the “Paint the City with My Pride” campaign. Sparked by this year’s Marriage Equality Bill passage, the initiative by Cispi and the Creative Economy Agency seeks to highlight gender inclusivity while boosting the economy, despite no specific financial figures being available.
The campaign features collaborations with leading Thai character designers. These artists will infuse works with traditional and pop culture elements, showcasing societal diversity. The resulting illustrations will adorn various products and items.
According to TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Thailand is positioning itself as the ultimate LGBTQ+ tourism destination. The concurrent “Amazing Thailand Love Wins Festival” will expand Pride celebrations to key tourist spots, including Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya, with events spanning ten additional provinces.
“We must ensure Thailand is an ideal LGBTQ+ destination beyond just Pride Month,” Thapanee emphasised.
Surapong Suebwonglee, Deputy Policy Adviser to the Prime Minister, stressed that the government supports diversity and equality through soft power strategies and fostering a creative culture. He highlighted diversity as a crucial economic driver, especially during times when new growth engines are essential.
This vibrant campaign and series of events promise to raise awareness and bolster economic activity, reaffirming Thailand’s commitment to equality and inclusion.
As any Thai knows, growing up in Thailand, we understand the issues and hardships faced by the LGBTQ community.
There are many prejudiced westerners in Thailand, spewing their hate and non-acceptance.
However, Thai people are most welcoming and understanding.
Seek out your own personal happiness, regardless of what others think.
It’s your life.