Thailand to revise Child Protection Act
The Social Development and Human Security Ministry, under the leadership of Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, is set to propose an amendment to Thailand’s Child Protection Act within the month for Cabinet approval. The updated act will emphasise the significant role of families and local communities in ensuring the safety of children.
Following the National Child Protection Committee meeting yesterday, Varawut unveiled that the revised Child Protection Act draft has been authorised and is scheduled for Cabinet endorsement within this month. The act’s implementation is intended as soon as approval is granted.
Varawut stressed the necessity for an overhaul of the longstanding Child Protection Act, to better suit the needs of contemporary society. The new version of the act is set to incorporate increased involvement from families and local communities in fostering a secure environment for children. This includes a focus on accident prevention and the implementation of preventive tools and measures.
The minister warned that those family and community members who fail to comply with the new regulations may face penalties.
In addition, the meeting saw the approval of the National Plan of Action for Child Protection 2023 to 2027, a strategy that aligns with both the United Nation’s (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Thailand’s 5×5 policy for addressing the population crisis, reported Bangkok Post.
Varawut expressed optimism that the proposed amendment will establish a robust regulatory structure for the protection of children’s well-being, facilitating their comprehensive development. He believes this will further contribute to the economic and social advancement of the nation.
In related news, a shocking scheme in Liupanshui, Guizhou Province in China where a woman abducted an 11 year old girl to groom her as a future bride for her eldest son, has led to prison sentences for both mother and son. The unusual case, which has sparked a furore on Chinese social media, underscores the enduring issue of child brides and the clash between modern law and traditional practices.
