At the end of 2025, Thailand enacted the Amendment to the Criminal Code (No. 30), considered one of the new laws that significantly affects people’s daily lives, especially behaviors related to sexual harassment.
This law was published in the Royal Gazette and became effective immediately. It introduces a clear definition and establishes “sexual harassment” as a direct criminal offense, rather than merely a minor offense as in the past.
The key objective is to enhance protection of human dignity and close legal loopholes that previously imposed only minor penalties, which caused many offenders to disregard the law.
Today, behaviors once viewed as “just teasing” or “just sending messages” may now lead to real criminal charges with possible imprisonment.
New Definition of “Sexual Harassment” Covers Physical Acts, Speech, Visual Conduct, and Online Actions
The new law defines “sexual harassment” (Section 1(19)) broadly and clearly. Physical contact is no longer required.
Sexual harassment includes acts through:
- Physical actions
- Words, sounds, or gestures
- Staring or following
- Communication via computer systems or electronic devices
If the act has sexual implications and causes the victim to feel ashamed, fearful, unsafe, or distressed, it may immediately be considered an offense.
Examples of risky behaviors include:
- Teasing about body shape or sexual organs
- Sexually suggestive staring
- Whistling or making sexual sounds
- Sending sexual messages, images, or comments online
- Stalking or harassment
All of these may fall under the new law.
New Penalties: From Small Fines to Actual Imprisonment
The law establishes escalating penalties based on severity.
Level 1 – General Harassment
Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine up to 20,000 Baht, or both.
Level 2 – Repeated Harassment / Stalking
If repeated or causes the victim to be unable to live normally
Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine up to 40,000 Baht.
Level 3 – Public or Online Harassment
Such as sexual comments, public shaming posts, or sexual messages
Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine up to 60,000 Baht (Section 284/1 Paragraph 3).
Power Harassment – Abuse of Authority
Such as supervisors, teachers, or employers
Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine up to 60,000 Baht (Section 284/2).
If the victim is under 15 years old
Maximum penalty: 5 years imprisonment and fine up to 100,000 Baht.
Major Change: Court Can Issue “No Contact / No Approach” Orders
Under Section 284/3, courts can impose protective measures.
The court can order the offender to:
- Stop contacting the victim
- Stay away from the victim
- Stop repeating the behavior
This allows protection during legal proceedings, without waiting for repeated incidents.
The key concept is not only to punish offenders but also to prevent repeated harm to victims.
What To Do If You Become a Victim
The new law makes prosecution easier, but evidence remains crucial.
Important steps include:
✔ Clearly show non-consent immediately
✔ Keep evidence such as chats, images, videos, or audio
✔ Report to police with complete evidence
Legal experts recommend keeping screenshots or records of behavior as key court evidence.
Do Not Wait Until It Escalates Let the Law Protect You Today
In the era of social media and online life, sexual harassment laws are essential protection.
In practice, many cases require legal strategy, evidence collection, and proactive legal action.
If you are experiencing:
- Visual sexual harassment
- Harassment via chat or social media
- Stalking
- Harassment from someone in power
Consulting a lawyer early can stop problems before they escalate.
Wongsakorn Law Office is ready to evaluate legal issues, plan legal strategies, and protect your rights under the new law.
If you or someone close to you is facing such situations, you can contact Wongsakorn Law Office for legal consultation and appropriate solutions.
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