BANGKOK – At midnight on Tuesday, 30 December 2025, Thailand began enforcing Amendment No. 30 to the Criminal Code. For the first time, sexual harassment is set out as a separate criminal offence. The update also widens the legal meaning of both rape and sexual harassment. It covers non-contact behaviour, online conduct, and situations where power is used to pressure someone, bringing the law closer to how abuse happens in real life.
The amendment, published in the Royal Gazette, took effect on 30 December and expands sexual offence rules far beyond physical attacks. Thailand’s Criminal Code was based on a 1956 structure that focused mainly on force or direct contact. That left many gaps for verbal harassment, gestures, and abuse on the internet.
Under the new sections, sexual harassment includes sexual behaviour that can be spoken, shown, or sent, and that causes distress, shame, fear, or irritation. Touch is not required. Acts that can now be punished include catcalling, staring sexually, whistling, unwanted sexual remarks or questions, stalking, repeated following, and sending explicit messages through social media.
Penalties depend on the case. General harassment can lead to fines or prison. Punishment increases for cases involving children and young teens. Where the victim is under 15, penalties can reach five years in prison and a fine of up to 100,000 baht. The law also takes a harder line on misuse of power, such as an employer pressuring a worker, with penalties of up to three years in prison and a fine of up to 60,000 baht.
Rape Definition Expanded and Loopholes Closed
The reform also updates the definition of rape and closes long-criticised loopholes. Forced oral sex, which was often treated as an “indecent act” under older practice, is now classed as rape. The revised wording also covers penetration with any body part or object, giving broader protection for victims.
These changes build on earlier reforms, including the 2007 recognition of marital rape and gender-neutral wording. The latest amendment goes further by tightening how consent and non-consent are understood, including in cases linked to online abuse.
Campaigners say the update reflects a rise in online harassment, helped by heavy social media use in Thailand and the shift towards more virtual contact since the pandemic.
Sexual Harassment Law First Report
The new rules began to bite almost at once. Within hours of the law taking effect, reports surfaced of early cases moving towards prosecution. One high-profile example involved the daughter of well-known politician Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, who said she planned to take legal action against singer-actor Pakorn “Dome” Lam. The complaint relates to alleged sexual comments posted online under her photo.
The reported remarks are said to fit the new harassment offence, showing how online posts can now carry criminal risk. Legal observers say victims should keep proof, including screenshots and recordings, and report the matter to police. The process is expected to be more direct than before.
Groups such as the Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation have pushed for this change for years. Director Jaded Chouwilai has said many serious assaults begin with conduct that others brush off, like lingering looks or “joking” comments.
She said the new law supports dignity for people of all genders and called for attitudes to change, so harassment is not excused as harmless fun.
The reform also brings Thailand closer to other countries in the region, including Singapore and the Philippines. It follows criticism from organisations such as the International Commission of Jurists, which has pointed to outdated rules that made it harder for survivors to get justice.
The Next Test, Training, and Fair Enforcement
While many have welcomed the amendment, making it work well will take effort. Police will need training to handle complaints carefully and consistently. Courts may also take time to set clear standards, including how to weigh intent and the harm caused.
Stigma still stops many people from reporting, but the law includes tools such as protective orders. These can limit an offender’s contact with the victim and, in some cases, support steps to remove harmful online content.
In offices, schools, and public places, the message is clear: sexual harassment is no longer tolerated. For young people who spend a lot of time online, the change offers stronger protection against harassment and sexual bullying.
As 2025 ends, the reform marks a major shift in how Thailand deals with sexual violence and sexual harassment. It underlines a basic point: words and actions can cause real harm, and personal dignity matters. Victims now have clearer legal options, and offenders face stronger deterrents.
Thailand’s push to update its sexual offence laws shows growing awareness of personal rights. With enforcement now underway, the focus turns to consistent use of the law and lasting cultural change.
Related News:
Teacher Shoots and Kills Students’ Uncle Over Sexual Harassment Allegations
Chinese Tourist Arrested for Sexual Harassment at Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium
