Bangkok: The House of Representatives has unanimously passed an amendment to the Criminal Code, introducing a universal definition of “sexual harassment.” The newly defined offense encompasses verbal harassment, gestures, monitoring, humiliation, and computer harassment, with potential prison sentences ranging from one to five years. Bosses exploiting subordinates are also liable, facing up to three years in prison.

According to Thai News Agency, the meeting, chaired by Mr. Pichet Chuamuangphan, First Vice President of the House of Representatives, was held to deliberate on the draft bill amending the Criminal Code. Mr. Supachai Jaisamut of the Bhumjaithai Party led the special committee responsible for reviewing the bill, which passed through its second and third readings.

Mr. Supachai outlined several modifications to the draft bill to ensure its effective enforcement and relevance to contemporary issues. Key amendments include adding a definition of “sexual harassment,” revising safety measures to incorporate an omission order, and increasing penalties for offenses related to bullying, intimidation, or harassment, especially when committed in public spaces.

The revised definition of “rape” now includes the use of another person’s genitals or objects in addition to the perpetrator’s sexual organ. The term “genitals” also extends to those resulting from surgery. The bill clarifies the scope of sexual harassment, including acts committed via computer systems, and outlines conditions for settlements in minor cases to avoid overburdening the court system.

Mr. Supachai emphasized that the bill aims to deter sexual harassment and protect vulnerable individuals, such as children and those unable to defend themselves. The court is authorized to impose safety measures and penalties for violators, particularly in computer-based harassment cases. The legislation also mandates the removal of obscene content from platforms like Facebook, Line, and TikTok upon court orders.

Following extensive debate, the bill was approved with 366 votes in favor, none against, and one abstention. It will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration.