Understanding the legal side of Thailand Age of Consent is important. Every year Thailand graciously hosts millions of tourists. It’s one of the most exotic and happening places in the world right now! This is exactly why laws are important for the protection of its citizens and minors.

In Thailand age of consent, legally is a very important aspect of the law. Much like the rest of the world, here, the age of consent helps protect minors. There are exceptions to the established rules and penalties, too.

Thus, in this article, we will talk about the age of consent in Thailand laws.

What Is The Age Of Consent In Thailand? Why Is It Important?

First, let us discuss what the Age of Consent means. Age of consent means the following.

The legal age after attaining which a person can engage in sexual activities.

Moreover, such activity should be consensual in nature.

There are exceptions to this rule in special situations where one party is in a position of authority or trust.

Legal Rules Of Thailand Age Of Consent

In Thailand, the legal age of consent is generally 15 years old. This means that anyone who is 15 or older can legally engage in consensual sexual activity. However, there are exceptions to it.

Thus, according to the provision above, anyone under the age of 15 is legally a minor.

What Does Minor Mean Under Thailand Age Of Consent?

A minor is an individual who does not have the same rights as an adult.

They have not attained the age of majority.

Moreover, the definition of minor can vary with the activity.

For example, there can be different ages for marriage, alcohol consumption, driving, and sexual activities.

Similarly, in Thailand, the legal age of consent is different for each of these.

What Is Legal Age Of Consent In Thailand?

It is important to know the different legal ages of Consent. Otherwise, it can all lead to different types of legal problems.

Although no law explicitly defines the Thailand age of consent, this is what is usually accepted.

Above the age of 15 but not 18 yet, it is still a minor in Thailand.

The child protection act of Thailand was passed in 2003. It defines a child as a person who is below 18 years of age. However, the definition of a child will exclude a person who has become a major through marriage.

Therefore, the Thailand age of consent may, in some cases, be 18 years.

Sexual Activity Under Age Of Consent

The Thailand age of consent is the minimum age for a person to be involved in consensual sexual acts. Therefore, if a younger person still engages in sexual activity, the law will see it as nonconsensual. Therefore this activity will be illegal. The person engaging in sex with a minor will face the charges of statutory rape.

Moreover, charges of statutory rape are very serious and can lead to long prison sentences.

Thailand Age Of Consent Thailand: Penalties

According to the criminal court of Thailand, sexual activity with an underage girl can lead to the following.

• Punishment of 4 to 20 years in prison.
• A fine of 8000 to 40000 That Baht.
• Both in extreme cases.
• However, this underage person should not be the lovely wedded wife of the accused.
• The underage person should be a minor (under 15 years).
• Consent from a girl under 15 will not count as legal consent.
• This law also extends to indecent activities toward a child under 15 years of age.

When this action includes threatening or fraud of the underage girl, it’s stricter. There could be an extra 15 years of imprisonment.

What Are The Exceptions To The Age Of Consent?

Yes, there are indeed exceptions to the Thailand Age of Consent. These exceptions further focus on the protection of minors. Moreover, these exceptions are important against fighting the types of discrimination when it comes to economic strata. Right to equality, after all, includes equal protection under the law.

Increased Age Of Consent For Position of Trust or Authority

In cases where one person holds a position of trust or authority over another, the age may differ. For example, someone like a teacher, guardian, or caretaker may face a greater age of consent.  

Therefore, this is a precautionary measure. It has the aim to safeguard minors from exploitation or abuse by those in positions of power.

Penalty For Sexual Relations Between Closely Related Parties

Thai laws strictly declare all and any sexual relations between related parties. This is irrespective of their sexual orientation. Therefore, this is another protective measure for minors in the country. After all, instances of sexual abuse in minors are common among family members.

Additionally, this prohibition extends to both heterosexual and homosexual relationships. The law’s main objective is to prevent the occurrence of incestuous relationships within families.

To Conclude

Therefore, knowing and obeying these laws of Thailand’s age of consent is very important. It helps to avoid legal issues. Not being aware of these rules doesn’t excuse anyone, especially in situations involving family.  

Thus, the usual age of consent in Thailand is around 15. However, sexual abuse laws are still extremely strict. Sexual assault victims, especially those younger than 13, cause severe punishments. The offender can face charges of assault. 

Additionally, they may also face jail time of 7 to 20 years. Moreover, they may even have to pay a fine of up to 40000 Thai Baht.-

However, if there is a history of prior criminal offenses, the punishment can be even more severe.

As a concluding statement, Thailand age of consent is 15 years and older. However, under the age of 18, it may be a compound offense in some areas.

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