Bangkok: "Sophon" has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with five key ministries to tackle the pressing issue of low birth rates and the deteriorating quality of life among children in Thailand. The initiative aims to revise existing laws that hinder progress and ensure that funds allocated for seminars are used effectively to yield concrete results.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sophon Saram, President of the Parliament, discussed the MOU's objectives following a signing ceremony meant to promote child birth and quality development by 2026. The MOU was signed with the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, and the Ministry of Interior. Mr. Sophon highlighted that Thailand, like many other countries, is facing a crisis that requires urgent and comprehensive solutions. The birth rate, which stood at over 800,000 in 2024, is projected to plummet to just over 400,000 by 2026. Compounding the issue is the poor quality of life for many children, stemming from factors such as drug addiction and familial neglect. The MOU aims to facilitate a collaborative effort among the five ministries, with Parliament serving as a coordinating body.
Addressing legislative contributions, Mr. Sophon explained that a brainstorming session was organized, dividing participants into four rooms focusing on different aspects: attitudes towards childbirth, rights and guarantees of childbearing, education, and the study of relevant laws and regulations. Legislators are tasked with identifying and amending the legal hurdles that impede progress in these areas.
Mr. Sophon also addressed concerns raised by several MPs regarding the reluctance of younger generations to have children. In connection with this, the Parliament is also prioritizing the drug problem, with new drug legislation expected to be introduced during the current parliamentary term. The ongoing budget considerations for seminars have raised questions about their effectiveness, prompting Mr. Sophon to emphasize the need for Parliament to set an example by organizing meaningful and impactful seminars.