A report from the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand shows that an average of 7 women a day are sexually assaulted in the kingdom, making Thailand one of the worst countries in the world in this regard.
In response to the findings, and to mark International Women’s Day, the NHRC has called for greater gender equality across all sectors in Thailand.
According to the commission’s chairperson, the patriarchy continues to dominate Thai society. Pornprapai Ganjanarintr says gender inequality and discrimination is widespread, resulting in frequent instances of domestic abuse and sexual assault.
“Over 7 women have been sexually and physically assaulted per day. Thailand ranks among the top countries for sexual assaults against women.”
According to the report, the victims often know their attackers, who are frequently family members or school employees. There are recurring reports of cases of physical and mental assault not being prosecuted fairly and a shortage of female investigating officers.
In addition, the authorities often fail to protect and secure the rights of victims, including a case where a woman tried 3 times to report her ex-husband for domestic violence and was rejected each time.
Thailand’s vulnerable groups, including women and children, migrant workers, ethnic groups, women living with HIV, and people with disabilities, continue to face challenges.
At last year’s Human Rights Assembly, the NHRC made addressing violence against women a priority, elevating it to the national agenda under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.
Pornprapai wants the Thai government and all sectors of society to improve services for women, including access to safe abortion, more female police officers, more initiatives to empower women, and more women in politics at all levels.
She says addressing these issues would help to ultimately create a society free from discrimination and violence.
SOURCE: Thai PBS World
