On March 18, 2025, Thailand marked a significant step forward in the protection of victims of domestic violence with the Cabinet's approval of the Family Violence Protection Act. The Prime Minister, Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, presided over the meeting where the act was discussed alongside various initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and security of citizens.
The Family Violence Protection Act, which amends the existing legislation established in 2007, aims to provide clearer definitions and broader coverage of family violence, encompassing not only physical abuse but also psychological and sexual harassment as well as any actions intended to harm individuals’ well-being.
According to the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the updated act introduces harsher penalties for family violence offenders, including imprisonment for up to six months and fines of up to 60,000 baht. Previously, penalties were limited to fines of only 6,000 baht. Notably, repeat offenders or those committing violence against minors face even stricter consequences.
The Cabinet meeting, held at the Government House, aimed to discuss not only legal protections but also broader social initiatives to alleviate suffering and improve welfare among the populace. Initiatives include royal projects aimed at increasing job opportunities for those affected by violence and those struggling near urban areas and communities.
During the session, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of these initiatives to tackle social issues comprehensively, stating, "These projects serve as models for how we can work collaboratively to help those who need it the most. Given the rise in social challenges, we have to respond effectively to provide security and development for our communities." This sentiment echoes the government's broader commitment to improving human security.
On the same day, the Ministry of Education met to address safety measures as schools prepared for the second term closure. Sorawit Surintr, acting on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, discussed safety protocols to protect students and educational personnel from potential disasters and security threats.
The Ministry outlined several preventive measures, including enhancing the safety of school premises, preparing for natural disasters like floods and fires, and closely monitoring student behavior, particularly during periods when school activities may be less supervised.
With flooding being a recurring concern during school breaks, educational institutions were advised to collaborate with parents and local authorities to prevent drowning incidents among students. The Ministry is also urging the institutions to have adequate systems for monitoring students’ safety during travel and activities.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s Cabinet also focused on economic initiatives, discussing investment strategies and projects aimed at fostering growth. The projects discussed include support for local agricultural ventures and educational programs, with the government approving over 27 million baht for 492 different projects targeting disadvantaged areas.
Among these, funding for the support of tree planting projects, particularly in Chiang Rai, stands out with 8.52 million baht allocated for 168 projects. Similarly, 2.01 million baht has been set aside for 41 projects aimed at improving local livestock farming.
The agenda also included the allocation of government subsidies totaling 875.5 million baht, shared equally between federal and local governments, to promote public utility improvements throughout urban regions.
This multifaceted approach reflects the Thai government's urgency to not only address pressing legal reforms aimed at protecting vulnerable individuals but also bolster community welfare through strategic investments and vigilant safety measures.
Moving forward, stakeholders will be watching closely as the government rolls out these initiatives and the impact they have on society. With the Family Violence Protection Act now set to be enacted, experts remain cautiously optimistic about its potential to affect change positively.
