Thailand Ranks 20th in Global Parenthood Support Index

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FILE photo courtesy: Freepik

 

Thailand currently finds itself grappling with a "population structure crisis" as it transitions into a super-aged society with declining birth rates.

 

In response, the government has implemented the Population Development Plan (2022–2037), which underscores the importance of family-friendly policies.

 

The aim is to foster quality family environments and establish support systems that make childbirth and child-rearing more feasible.

 

The plan outlines strategies to enhance the quality of life across all age groups, focusing particularly on encouraging "good births" through family-centric policies. It addresses the need for support across four key areas: time, financial resources, child-rearing support, and effective legal frameworks.

 

Various initiatives have been launched to encourage childbirth, including a child support subsidy of 600 baht per month for children aged 0-6 in low-income families, extending maternity leave to 98 days, offering childbirth benefits via the Social Security Fund, and providing tax incentives for establishing childcare facilities.

The private sector, too, has introduced family-friendly workplace practices such as extending maternity leave to six months, allowing flexible working hours for parents, and offering financial assistance for family-related expenses.

 

In a policy dialogue hosted by the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) alongside ThaiHealth and other partners, NESDC deputy secretary-general Worawan Plikhamin highlighted Thailand’s low score in the "Women, Business, and the Law 2020" report.

 

With just 20 out of 100 points in the parenthood category, the score reflects Thailand's current struggle with creating a supportive environment for parents.

 

Natthaya Boonpakdee, director of the Child, Youth, and Family Well-being Support Office at ThaiHealth, emphasised the necessity for workplace policies that address household debt, a significant barrier to family stability and the decision to have children.

 

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 survey indicates that household debt in Thailand averages 606,378 baht, a rise of 47,000 baht from 2023, driven by insufficient income, rising living costs, and increasing family financial burdens, reported The Nation.

 

-- 2024-11-21