Thailand plans to regulate sex work, igniting public debate

Thailand plans to regulate sex work, igniting public debate

Thailand's government, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has proposed a plan to regulate sex work and bring underground industries into the formal economy, sparking public debate. Advocates like Surang Janyam from SWING argue for decriminalizing sex work to provide legal protections and allow workers to pay taxes. Supporters, including brothel owners and businesses in Pattaya, back the idea, while critics worry about child exploitation. Meanwhile, sex workers protested outside Parliament, demanding equal rights and faster progress on protective legislation for their industry.