Bangkok: New criteria for registering people with disabilities have been introduced by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) in Thailand, aiming to enhance access to rights and comprehensive welfare benefits for this group. The revised registration criteria are expected to bring 4.1 million people with disabilities into the system, ensuring they receive necessary welfare benefits.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF) is also intensifying its efforts to raise awareness and address domestic violence among vulnerable groups, alongside stricter law enforcement measures. The Foundation for the Promotion of Social Equality (FPE) and the THPF recently organized a seminar titled “Driving Mechanisms to Protect the Rights of Victims of Domestic Violence and Gender-Based Violence through Friendly Approaches,” during which they unveiled the 2025 report on the situation of people with disabilities who are subjected to domestic and gender-based violence.
Mr. Kantapong Rangsisawang, Permanent Secretary of the MSDHS, emphasized the ministry’s commitment to the care of vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities. Key policies being implemented include shifting from a medical-based disability assessment to a social-based approach that accounts for physical characteristics. This approach aims to extend disability rights to individuals who were previously ineligible, such as those with unilateral blindness, under the 2007 Act on the Promotion and Development of the Quality of Life for People with Disabilities. The ministry aims to identify and register people with disabilities, enabling them to receive legal welfare benefits. The National Statistical Office estimates that while there are approximately 4.1 million people with disabilities in Thailand, only 2.26 million are currently registered, with many facing registration challenges due to family hesitation or personal limitations in accessing registration facilities. Efforts are also underway to create
opportunities for people with disabilities to access employment rights and business funding.
Mr. Rangsisawang further highlighted the ministry’s collaborative campaign with government agencies and the public to combat domestic violence. The focus is on raising awareness and enforcing laws to prevent violence against women, family members, and people with disabilities. Despite ongoing efforts, domestic violence persists, prompting amendments to the Domestic Violence Protection Act alongside awareness campaigns and law enforcement. Stakeholders, previously uninvolved in drafting laws, are now participating through consultation processes.
Ms. Poranee Phuprasert, Assistant Manager of the THPF, noted that Thailand experiences relatively high levels of violence compared to other countries, with one-third of the world’s population affected by gender-based violence, particularly women with disabilities. With an estimated 4 million people with disabilities in Thailand, the THPF supports mechanisms to alleviate the issue, including local initiatives and strengthening existing government frameworks. Promoting integrated collaboration between public and private sectors is essential to address all forms of violence and ensure comprehensive agency involvement.
The THPF recommends reducing legal constraints, promoting mediation and settlement, and punishing offenders under criminal law to mitigate violence. Making this a national agenda, with coordinated efforts from various agencies, is essential. The public is encouraged to view violence as a societal issue, particularly concerning people with disabilities, who often struggle to seek help. Awareness and intervention are crucial in various settings, including homes and workplaces.
Associate Professor Dr. Boonserm Hutaphat, an independent scholar, underlined the complexity of violence, particularly for people with disabilities who face significant barriers in accessing help. A survey conducted in Samut Prakan and Nong Bua Lamphu provinces revealed that 37% of respondents with disabilities reported experiencing violence, with instances of verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse from family members being prevalent.
Proposals for relevant agencies include providing assistance, prevention, protection, and remediation for those affected by violence, ensuring access to essential rights and welfare benefits, and promoting health equity. Continuous research and community activities are recommended to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and enhance understanding of violence issues among affected individuals and their families.