Thailand bans all forms of violence against children  

The law, which was published in the Royal Gazette on March 24, 2025, makes Thailand the 68th country in the world to completely ban corporal punishment.

This means children can no longer be physically disciplined at home, in schools, or in care centres.

The law follows global efforts to protect children's rights and promote positive parenting.

It also aligns with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, an international agreement that Thailand has signed.

Violent discipline at home has been decreasing in Thailand, but it remains a concern.

A 2022 survey by the National Statistical Office and UNICEF found that 54 percent of children under 14 had experienced physical or psychological punishment at home.

This was lower than the 75 percent recorded in 2015, but experts say no child should face any form of violence.

UNICEF welcomed the new law and called it a major step toward ending violence against children.

The organisation also urged the government to help parents learn non-violent ways to discipline their children.

Research shows that bans on corporal punishment work best when combined with education on positive parenting.

UNICEF Thailand said it would continue working with the government and communities to protect children and promote their rights. While more work is needed, this law is seen as an important move toward a safer future for children in Thailand.