Politics
Thai Ministry of Labour Proposes Expanding Social Security Coverage
The Ministry of Labour has submitted a proposal to extend Section 33 social security benefits to agricultural workers, street vendors, and domestic staff.
On August 25, 2026, Minister of Labour Julapun Amornvivat announced that the ministry has submitted a proposal to the Cabinet to expand the scope of Section 33 of the Social Security Act. According to Khaosod Online, this initiative aims to provide social security coverage to three previously excluded groups: agricultural workers, street vendors, and domestic staff.
For residents and expatriates, this development is significant as it signals a potential shift in the national social safety net, potentially impacting the labor market and the formalization of informal employment sectors. Additionally, the Ministry of Labour is seeking Cabinet approval for Thailand to join the Global Coalition for Social Justice, an international initiative aimed at reducing inequality and promoting sustainable labor rights.
While the proposal has been presented to the Cabinet, it remains to be confirmed when these changes will be officially enacted or how the specific implementation process will be structured for these newly included groups. Furthermore, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security has separately proposed a draft bill regarding domestic violence protection, which includes provisions for economic support and stricter, non-compoundable penalties for offenders. These proposals are currently under review by the government, and further details regarding their final approval and timeline for implementation are pending.