According to a survey last year, 1 in 6 Thai women in heterosexual relationships reported experiencing intimate partner violence. In another survey, 42% said they’d been forced into sexual acts with their boyfriends or husbands.

In Thailand, domestic violence is often viewed as a private matter and something that those outside the household shouldn’t interfere with. This stops many Thai women from receiving the assistance they need. For foreigners, the language barrier and unfamiliarity with local authorities can make matters even more difficult.

The aim of this post is to make it easier for victims of abuse to reach out, and to let them know where to turn when it’s time to do so. Here’s a list of Bangkok-based foundations that specialize in these kinds of cases, offering legal guidance, financial assistance, therapy and advice.

7 Organizations Providing Counselling, Legal Assistance and Guidance to Women in Thailand

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or violence of any kind, these organizations can help you.

1. One Stop Crisis Centre (OSCC)

The One Stop Crisis Center was launched by the Thai government in 2013 to combat violence against women. It consists of 22,000 crisis centres spread all over the country, 1,300 mobile units to reach out to communities, and a 24-hour hotline. The organization provides counselling, medical treatment and legal support.

Hotline (24 hours): 1300 

2. Foundation for Women (FFW)

The Foundation for Women is an NGO providing hotline services, shelter, case referral, emergency financial assistance and legal support to women in Bangkok who are victims of violence, exploitation, abuse and trafficking.

3. The Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation (WMP)

The Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation provides telephone counselling services to those who are experiencing domestic and sexual violence.

On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, volunteer lawyers provide legal advice and case referrals. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, social workers and survivors of abuse provide counselling.

Visit the Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation Facebook page.

WMP, 50/6 Ratchadaphisek Road 42-44, Chan Kasem, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900

Tel: 0 2513 2889 from 9:00-17:00 daily (closed on public holidays)

Emergency contact number: 087 326 6820    Fax: 0 2513 2856    

E-mail: info@wmp.or.th

 

4. Dr. Saovanee Noppaprach

Dr. Saovanee (or Dr. Bigg) is a counselling psychologist who specializes in critical incident stress management. She partners with the UN to provide services on a fee-levying basis. She also conducts private practice on Saturdays at Psychological Services International. Dr. Bigg is bilingual and offers services in both English and Thai language.

PSI Psychological Services International, 9/2 Sukhumvit Soi 43, Bangkok, 10110

Email: saovaneen@gmail.com.

 

5. Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand

Rainbow Sky Association provides health services, counselling, hotlines and legal support for Thailand’s LGBTI+ community.

Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand No. 1 and 3, Soi Ramkhamhaeng 97/2, Ramkhamhaeng Rd, Bangkapi, Bangkok. 10240

Tel: 02-731-6532-3 ext 202    Fax: 02-731-6534

 

6. Friends of Women Foundation

At Friends of Women Foundation, social workers and lawyers offer support for women escaping domestic violence.

386/61-62 Ratchadapisek 42, Ratchada Road Latyao, Jatuchak, Bangkok, 10900

Tel: 02 513 1001    Fax: 02 513 1929

 

7. SHero Thailand

SHero is founded by Busayapa ‘Best’ Srisompong. Best is a laywer, a human rights advocate, and a survivor of domestic violence. Having experienced the flawed legal system while pursuing her own case, she is now dedicated to providing support for fellow survivors. She provides pro-bono legal services for survivors of domestic violence, as well as counselling for emotional support. 

You can contact SHero Thailand via their website or their Facebook page.

Cover photo: Bankok Rising, a feminist group of local and expat women who raise funds and awareness to combat violence against women. Each year, they put on a production of The Vagina Monologues, donating the proceeds to Baan Phak Phing, a shelter for abused women and girls in Chiang Mai.

Related Posts:

Resources for Women in Bangkok – Sexual Health Services

Thai Women Talk About Sexual and Domestic Violence