Government promises push for same gender equality

The government’s relentless effort towards gender equality will come through the repeal of discriminatory laws and the suppression of domestic violence, said government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub.

The comment was made on Saturday by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during International Women’s Day.

The premier’s speech was on the occasion of this year’s International Women’s Day, which celebrates gaining equal rights, opportunities and justice for women and fights gender discrimination, Mr Jirayu said.

Thailand is one of 60 countries globally – and 10 in Asia — to have a female leader,” he added. Moreover, it is the third highest in the world for the ratio of its female CEOs, demonstrating its commitment to gender equality.

Ms Paetongtarn confidently said women can take leadership positions across the board and live their dreams without gender being a hindrance.

She expressed gratitude to those who have fought against discrimination, changed societal norms and opened doors for Thai women.

She said there were still challenges, such as gender-based violence, expectation from society which is still rooted in patriarchy, focus on women’s looks rather than capabilities and domestic violence.

She urged collective action to ensure that Thailand is a space for all genders.

Ms Paetongtarn said the government also supports gender equality in all areas by implementing policies such as adjusting discriminatory laws, the elimination of domestic violence, extending maternity leave, doing better in terms of quality of childcare, and supporting the Thai Women Empowerment Fund.

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, also chairman of the National Health Security Office (NHSO), cited Thailand’s 30-baht gold card scheme of universal healthcare as a key factor enabling Thai women equal access to health care.

Breast cancer continues to be the most common cancer among Thai women, he said, adding that the NHSO has extended its benefits to cover both mammograms and ultrasounds for women aged 40 and over who have a family history of breast cancer.

International Women’s Day must not be a mere symbolic day, but a day that drives real and meaningful change, said Democrat Party spokeswoman Janejira Rattanapian.

“The day shouldn’t be one where women are just praised with words.

“We need to support them with policies that acknowledge their roles,” Ms Janejira said, arguing that more political positions must be available to women and that the gender pay gap must narrow.

No less important, she said, is the need for safe spaces that keep women safe from any form of violence.

Ms Janejira demanded three main changes — equal access to leadership positions in both politics and workplaces, greater legal protections against gender-based violence, and economic support for women.

This support, she said, must also include single mothers and informal economy workers.