The Cabinet, during its meeting on 25 August 2026, approved a draft bill to provide greater protection for victims of domestic violence, updating the existing law in force since 2007.

The draft bill was proposed by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, seeking to amend the Domestic Violence Victim Protection Act B.E. 2550 (2007). It expands the definition of domestic violence beyond physical harm to include threats, intimidation, and economic abuse, while legal protection also covers former spouses and other individuals living under the same roof.

The legislation will make domestic violence a non-compoundable offence. Offenders will face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both, with harsher punishments for repeat offenders within three years, and for violence against children under 18 years.

Another important measure is to stop violence quickly before the situation escalates by empowering officials to immediately issue temporary relief orders to protect the safety of the victim. For instance, the offender will be prohibited from approaching the victim or consuming intoxicants, before the case is submitted to the Juvenile and Family Court for review within 48 hours. Whistleblowers who act in good faith will also be protected from legal liability.

The move to amend this law comes as the domestic violence situation remains an urgent issue needing to be addressed. Statistics from 2025 show that more than 2,000 cases were reported. Out of these, about 20 percent resulted from emotional outbursts and anger leading to physical assault, while another 20 percent were related to drug use. This reflects the fact that domestic violence is not merely an internal household issue but is also connected to various social factors.

This draft bill also seeks to establish a long-term prevention system by requiring relevant agencies to set up a central database and an electronic data linkage system to monitor and prevent domestic violence. An assessment will be conducted every five years to ensure the law adapts to changing circumstances, making “home” a safe space for every family member.