Bangkok: The government affirms it is accelerating the passage of the domestic violence law through parliament to close legal loopholes and protect victims in all aspects.
According to Thai News Agency, the government is actively addressing the issue of domestic violence by pushing the draft law, which has already been approved by the Cabinet, for urgent consideration by Parliament. Captain Patthadarasmi Thongslueykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, confirmed the government's commitment to tackling domestic violence following inquiries from opposition members of parliament. She noted that the draft law, approved by the Cabinet on August 25, 2026, has passed the government's parliamentary whips' review and is now poised for urgent consideration by the House of Representatives.
The Deputy Spokesperson also highlighted that the government has not only expedited the draft law through parliament but has also revised its content to address loopholes in the original 2007 law and adapt to evolving forms of domestic violence. The revised law broadens the definition of violence to include fear, intimidation, and economic deprivation, and extends protection to former spouses and those living in the same household.
The draft law introduces mechanisms to swiftly address incidents by empowering officials to issue temporary protection orders immediately. These orders can prohibit perpetrators from approaching victims or using intoxicating substances, before being submitted to the Juvenile and Family Court for review within 48 hours. Additionally, the law offers protection for individuals who report incidents in good faith.
Moreover, domestic violence is classified as a non-compoundable offense with increased penalties, particularly for offenses against children under 18 or repeated offenses within three years, to provide more effective protection for victims.
Mr. Chanin Rungthanakiat, advisor to the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, stated that the Minister has prioritized expediting this law since taking office. He has been closely monitoring its progress through various stages, from the Council of State's consideration to Cabinet approval and now preparing for parliamentary consideration.
Mr. Chanin emphasized that the legislative process requires careful consideration but assured that all necessary steps are progressing continuously and are now entering the parliamentary stage. He called for cooperation from all parties to expedite the law's passage in Parliament, stressing that the focus should be on ensuring timely protection for citizens facing violence, regardless of which political side proposed the draft.