Thai PBS Thai PBS
Can Thai tradition of indebtedness, gratitude to parents cause more harm than good?

Can Thai tradition of indebtedness, gratitude to parents cause more harm than good?

13 Sept 05:18 Key points summarised by AI
  • Thai tradition and law (Article 1562, "Utalum" cases) strictly prohibit children from suing parents, enforcing deep-seated respect and gratitude, even amidst disputes or abuse.
  • A 24-year-old woman's attempt to sue her father for abandoning her cat sparked a national debate, challenging the centuries-old legal ban and its relevance in modern society.
  • Despite the legal prohibition, Thailand faces significant unreported family abuse, often leaving children with limited direct legal recourse against abusive parents.
  • While direct lawsuits are barred, victims can pursue limited alternatives, such as having relatives file complaints or suing in cases not directly disputing the child and ascendant.
  • The controversy highlights a growing societal divide, questioning whether the tradition of parental indebtedness, while culturally significant, can enable harm and infringe upon children's fundamental rights.
Read full article
Opinion 1/1
Skip > Skip >