Bangkok: Civil society groups have joined forces with Members of Parliament from the People's Party to express deep concern over the escalating violence in Thai schools. They have proposed a systemic legislative solution aimed at safeguarding students and creating a safer educational environment across the nation.
According to Thai News Agency, a press conference was held featuring prominent People's Party MPs, including Ms. Natthaya Boonphakdee, Mr. Theerasak Chiratrachoo, Ms. Phatsarin Ramwong, and Ms. Narunat Piambandit. Ms. Nattaya Boonphakdee expressed her condolences for the recent violent incident in Chonburi Province, underscoring the persistent lack of safety in schools despite existing policies by the Ministry of Education. She highlighted the dangers of disseminating detailed information about violent acts, which could lead to "copycat" incidents, and advocated for the inclusion of hotline information on social media to help mitigate violence.
Mr. Teerasak Chiratrachoo emphasized the widespread nature of school violence, which has affected areas from Nonthaburi to Chonburi. He acknowledged the limitations of relying solely on schools to address this issue, advocating for a collaborative approach involving multiple ministries, such as the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the Ministry of Interior. Mr. Chiratrachoo announced the People's Party's proposal of a draft law focused on school safety, which is currently undergoing public consultation. This law aims to establish a comprehensive framework to reduce violence and improve safety measures in schools nationwide.
Ms. Patsarin Ramwong highlighted the importance of shifting the focus from regulating individuals to regulating systems. She introduced a draft law on protecting victims of domestic violence, which includes modernized protection measures and the establishment of a fund for victim support. Ms. Ramwong urged for the prompt consideration of this draft law, stating that violence is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention.
Ms. Narunat Piambandit raised critical questions regarding firearm possession, particularly in the context of individuals authorized to carry weapons. She called for standardized mental health assessments and readiness evaluations for firearm owners, coupled with stringent regulatory systems to prevent misuse. Ms. Piambandit emphasized that the right to possess firearms should be balanced with responsibility and safety standards, advocating for a system where rights, responsibility, and public safety are intertwined.