Bangkok: Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives, has received a proposal from Ms. Sunee Chairos and Mr. Nitirat Thrapsomboon, alongside representatives from various civil society networks, urging a swift implementation of universal child welfare and increased disability allowances. The proposal highlights the need to address structural inequality through enhanced welfare state policies.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong emphasized that the civil society networks have called for improved social welfare policies to enhance the quality of life for children, people with disabilities, and the elderly. The People's Party has committed to pushing these issues through legislative mechanisms and parliamentary committees to ensure prompt government action.
Mr. Nattapong expressed concerns over the government's current social welfare policies, which may reflect a decline in the welfare system. He pointed to the state welfare card policy as an example of restrictive eligibility criteria that prevent many from accessing benefits. The People's Party aims to promote a welfare system that serves as a basic life guarantee, ensuring social protection for those in need.
Mr. Nitirat Sapsomboon, representing the We Fair Network, outlined specific proposals to improve welfare: universal childcare subsidies for children aged 0-6, an increase in disability allowance, financial assistance for pregnant women, and a higher elderly allowance. These measures, if implemented, would benefit over 19 million people and strengthen social security amid economic challenges.
Ms. Sunee Chairos highlighted the need for a budget of approximately 7 billion baht to implement these proposals. Despite support from the Deputy Prime Minister, past delays in the universal child allowance policy demonstrate the need for clear Cabinet resolutions and budget allocations. The network urged the government to incorporate these funds into the 2027 fiscal year budget to ensure tangible outcomes.
The network also criticized the State Welfare Card's poverty screening system, noting that many eligible individuals are excluded due to complex criteria. They propose a shift toward universal welfare provision to improve access to benefits for nearly 1 million children, requiring an additional budget of approximately 5 billion baht.