When Did Women Get The Right To Vote In Thailand
Did you know that Thai women only gained the right to vote in 1949 That’s right, it wasn’t until 70 years ago that women were granted the same political rights as men in Thailand. This is in stark contrast to many other countries in the region, such as Vietnam and the Philippines, where women have had the right to vote since the early 1900s. So, next time you’re planning a trip to Thailand, be sure to learn more about the history of women’s suffrage in the country and how it has impacted Thai society today.
When did women get the right to vote in Thailand?
Women in Thailand gained the right to vote in 1948, after the country’s first constitution was promulgated.
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When Did Women Get the Right to Vote in Thailand?
History of Women’s Suffrage in Thailand
The history of women’s suffrage in Thailand is a long and complex one. While women have been granted the right to vote in Thailand since 1932, they have not always been able to exercise this right equally.
Early Struggles for Women’s Suffrage
The first organized efforts to secure women’s suffrage in Thailand began in the early 20th century. In 1913, a group of women founded the Thai Women’s Association (TWA), which campaigned for women’s rights, including the right to vote. The TWA’s efforts were met with resistance from both the government and the general public. In 1922, the government passed a law that granted women the right to vote in local elections, but this law was not implemented until 1932.
The 1932 Revolution and the Granting of Universal Suffrage
The 1932 Revolution brought about a number of changes to the Thai political system, including the granting of universal suffrage. The new constitution, which was promulgated in 1932, guaranteed all citizens the right to vote, regardless of gender. However, women were still not able to participate in political office.
The Struggle for Women’s Political Representation
In the years following the 1932 Revolution, women continued to fight for their right to participate in political office. In 1949, a woman named Khunying Kanitha Wichiencharoen was elected to the House of Representatives, becoming the first woman to serve in the Thai parliament. However, it would be another 20 years before another woman was elected to parliament.
The Present Day
Today, women make up a significant proportion of the Thai population, but they are still underrepresented in political office. In the 2019 general election, women accounted for just over 20% of the members of parliament. However, there are a number of women who are working to increase women’s political participation, and there are signs that the situation is improving.
Conclusion
The history of women’s suffrage in Thailand is a long and complex one, but it is also a story of progress. Women have come a long way in their fight for equality, and they continue to make gains in the political arena.
