Thailand Introduces New Amnesty Act

Thailand’s Act on Promoting a Peaceful Society B.E. 2569 (2026) entered into force on August 24, 2026, after royal endorsement and publication in the Royal Gazette on August 23, 2026. The law is commonly described as Thailand’s new political amnesty act and applies to specified political offences and expressions linked to political conflict between January 1, 2005, and July 16, 2025.

Legal Scope of the Amnesty

The law covers qualifying offences arising from political unrest and related expressions during the stated period. It excludes Section 112 of the Criminal Code, which concerns lese-majeste, along with corruption, crimes causing death or serious injury, and personal civil liabilities owed to private entities.

Institutional Mechanism Under the Act

The Act creates a nine-member Peaceful Society Promotion Committee chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The committee must hold its first meeting within 30 days and determine which cases meet the conditions for amnesty.

Effects on Criminal Proceedings

For cases that qualify, the law ends ongoing investigations and prosecutions, dismisses pending court cases, and terminates prison sentences. It also clears criminal records for persons covered by the amnesty.

Important Facts for Exams

• The law is titled the Act on Promoting a Peaceful Society B.E. 2569 (2026).
• The Royal Gazette is Thailand’s official government publication for laws and notifications.
• Section 112 of the Thai Criminal Code deals with lese-majeste offences.
• The House of Representatives passed the bill on July 8, 2026, by 306 votes to 141, with two abstentions.

Parliamentary Passage and Estimated Coverage

The House of Representatives passed the Peaceful Society Promotion Bill on July 8, 2026, by 306 votes to 141, with two abstentions. Parliamentary estimates placed the possible coverage at about 6,000 individuals, while one academic estimate placed the qualifying number at 1,000 to 2,000 people.