Thailand Cabinet approves new domestic violence protection bill

The Thai Cabinet has approved a new draft of the Domestic Violence Protection Act to modernize legal protections and close existing loopholes. Proposed by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the bill updates the previous 2007 legislation to better reflect contemporary social dynamics.

Key changes include expanding the definition of “violence” to encompass psychological intimidation and economic abuse, as well as broadening the definition of “family members” to include former spouses and cohabitants. Crucially, the bill reclassifies domestic violence as a non-compoundable offense, meaning victims can no longer settle or withdraw charges through mediation.

To ensure immediate safety, officials will be granted the authority to issue temporary protection orders, such as prohibiting an offender from approaching the victim or consuming intoxicants, before a court reviews the matter within 48 hours. Penalties include up to one year in prison or a fine of up to 20,000 baht, with increased severity for offenses against minors or repeat offenders. The bill also introduces considerations for “Battered Person Syndrome” as a mitigating factor in sentencing.