Bangkok: The compensation regulations under the Anti-Torture Act have officially come into effect.
According to Thai News Agency, this development was announced by Ms. Amon Siangyai, Director-General of the Department of Rights and Liberties Protection. The regulations are part of the Committee on the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance's efforts to provide assistance, remedy, and rehabilitation to victims, under the guidelines of B.E. 2025.
The new regulations incorporate international standards for victim compensation, focusing on human rights and ensuring a swift process without requiring the completion of legal proceedings. This framework represents a significant change in the approach to victim compensation in Thailand, offering not only financial recompense but also additional forms of support such as legal and social assistance, and formal apologies.
Eligibility for compensation is categorized into four groups: victims of torture who will receive 500,000 baht; victims of cruel, inhumane, or degrading acts who will receive between 100,000 and 250,000 baht; victims of enforced disappearance who will receive 500,000 baht; and immediate family members or dependents of the disappeared who will receive 100,000 baht.
The responsibility for implementing these regulations falls to the Subcommittee on Assistance and Remedies for Victims of Torture and Enforced Disappearances. This subcommittee is chaired by Ms. Siangyai and includes representatives from various governmental and legal bodies, human rights experts, and medical professionals. Notable among them is Dr. Petchdao Tomeena, a psychiatric specialist who represents the victims.
A meeting scheduled for March 26, 2025, aims to further discuss and refine the criteria and guidelines for aiding victims, marking the official launch of the compensation regulations.