Law
Civil Society Urges Review of Forest Land Use Draft Regulation
Civil society groups have petitioned the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to reconsider a draft regulation concerning the use of forest areas under the 1941 Forest Act.
On September 17, 2026, Matichon Online reported that representatives from civil society organizations submitted a formal request to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE). The group is calling for a comprehensive review of a draft ministerial regulation that outlines the utilization of forest land under the Forest Act of 1941.
The petitioners expressed concerns regarding the potential impact of these regulatory changes on forest conservation and local land rights. In response, a Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry received the petition and provided an initial explanation, asserting that the proposed regulation is intended to yield positive outcomes for environmental management and sustainability.
For residents and travelers, this development is significant as it highlights ongoing debates regarding land management and environmental protection in Thailand. Changes to forest land regulations can influence access to protected areas, national park management, and the legal status of communities residing near forest boundaries.
At this stage, the draft regulation remains under discussion. It is not yet confirmed how the Ministry will address the specific concerns raised by the civil society groups or whether the draft will undergo significant amendments before finalization. Stakeholders are awaiting further clarification on the specific provisions of the regulation and the timeline for its potential implementation.
