Bangkok: An anti-violence network has pressed for swift legislative action to fortify protections under the Domestic Violence Protection Act, advocating for an inclusive definition that embraces all gender identities. The group stressed the importance of submitting the draft bill to Parliament without delay, alongside other proposals from civil society organizations, to address existing discriminatory loopholes.
According to Thai News Agency, over 30 members of the 'Network Against Gender-Based Violence in Thailand' convened with Mr. Nikorn Somklang, Minister of Social Development and Human Security. Their appeal focused on expediting amendments to the Domestic Violence Protection Act to secure comprehensive protections for victims, regardless of gender, and to close legal gaps that may allow offenders to evade accountability.
Dr. Waraporn Chaemsanit, the network's coordinator, revealed that a civil society-backed bill had already been presented to the House of Representatives at the close of 2025. While it is listed on the House's agenda, the government's version of the draft bill has yet to be submitted. The network is urging for both drafts to be considered simultaneously, pointing out inadequacies in the current 2007 Act in safeguarding domestic violence victims.
Concerns were raised over the government's draft, which omits 'couples' from the definition of 'family member,' potentially excluding many victims from protection. Dr. Chaemsanit emphasized that violence among couples, regardless of their living arrangements or sexual orientation, can be as severe as that among married partners. The network insists on reinstating 'couple' in the legal definition to avoid state-sanctioned discrimination based on relationship forms.
The proposed government draft also contains contentious provisions, such as allowing officials to determine if victims contributed to the violence, which could perpetuate harmful stereotypes and further victimize individuals. While it classifies domestic violence as a non-negotiable offense, it still permits halting legal proceedings against perpetrators in certain circumstances, counteracting the victims' rights to pursue criminal charges.
Yui, a network member with lived experience of domestic violence, shared her struggles in seeking protection under existing laws. Despite multiple reports to law enforcement, she was met with inaction and ineffective mediation, underscoring the need for more robust legal support mechanisms.
Minister Nikorn Somklang acknowledged the network's concerns, affirming the ministry's commitment to addressing domestic violence. He underscored the potential for productive dialogue between government and civil society in shaping the new legislation, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of domestic violence laws for societal betterment.