News
Thaksin’s Opponents Rally for His Reimprisonment Amid Controversy

Growing Opposition to Thaksin’s Release
Protesters Demand Justice Outside Justice Ministry
On January 20, 2025, a small group of protesters gathered outside Thailand’s Justice Ministry to voice their opposition against the anticipated release of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Activist Pichit Chaimongkol, leading the demonstration, emphasized that Thaksin had not served any time in prison, stating, “Thaksin is only a prisoner in name”. The demonstrators expressed their discontent with what they perceive as preferential treatment afforded to Thaksin, who has been receiving medical care at a police hospital instead of serving his sentence.
Predictions of Escalating Protests
Despite the modest turnout, Chaimongkol predicted that the movement would gain momentum as more citizens become aware of the perceived injustices in Thaksin’s treatment. He warned that this issue would not dissipate easily, asserting that many share similar sentiments regarding the inequalities in the justice system.
Thaksin’s Controversial Hospital Stay
Speculations Surrounding His Health and Legal Status
Thaksin has been residing in a hospital since his return to Thailand after 15 years in exile, raising questions about the legitimacy of his imprisonment. Critics argue that his swift transfer from prison to a hospital room indicates he may never serve time behind bars. As discussions about potential royal clemency for Thaksin circulate, opponents are increasingly vocal about their demands for equal treatment under the law.
Calls for Accountability from Government Officials
Protesters have directed their frustrations at Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong, accusing him of evading accountability by avoiding meetings with demonstrators. The upcoming Supreme Court meeting on January 27 will further examine Thaksin’s legal situation and whether he should face consequences for allegedly violating court orders.
Political Ramifications of Thaksin’s Release
Potential Impact on Thai Politics
Thaksin’s release has significant implications for Thailand’s political landscape. His supporters celebrate his return as a victory against the conservative establishment that has long viewed him as a threat. However, opponents warn that if he regains influence, it could ignite further unrest and protests across the nation.
The Role of Pheu Thai Party
The Pheu Thai Party, led by Thaksin’s daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is navigating a complex political environment where public sentiment is divided. Critics argue that any perceived favoritism towards Thaksin could jeopardize the party’s standing among voters who demand accountability and justice.
A Divided Nation
Future Protests Likely as Tensions Escalate
As tensions rise surrounding Thaksin’s release and ongoing legal issues, further protests are anticipated. The opposition remains steadfast in their demands for justice and equality within Thailand’s judicial system. With upcoming court decisions and potential legislative changes on the horizon, the political climate in Thailand is poised for significant developments in the coming weeks.
News
Thai Massage Boom in France: Government Seizes Opportunity for Skilled Workers

Thai Massage Gains Popularity in France
Demand Rises for Skilled Thai Therapists
Traditional Thai massage is experiencing a surge in popularity across France, creating a significant demand for skilled therapists. This trend has caught the attention of the Thai government, which sees an opportunity to promote employment for its citizens abroad.
Government Collaboration with French Association
Creating Legal Pathways for Thai Practitioners
The Thai Ministry of Labor has engaged in discussions with the Association Française Nuad Thai & Spa (AFNTS) in Paris. Their goal is to establish legal channels for Thai massage practitioners to work in France while adhering to all relevant regulations.
Certification and Training Requirements
Enhancing Job Prospects for Thai Therapists
While France does not mandate a specific professional license for massage therapists, certification from Thailand or completion of recognized training programs significantly boosts credibility and improves job opportunities for Thai practitioners.
UNESCO Recognition Boosts Thai Massage Status
Increased Service Prices and Job Openings
The designation of Thai massage as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO has elevated its status, leading to higher service prices. Packages for various Thai massage treatments now start at around 100 euros, equivalent to approximately 3,500 baht.
Lucrative Employment Opportunities
Competitive Salaries and Benefits for Thai Therapists
The growing demand has created over a hundred job openings for Thai massage therapists and trainers in France. Starting salaries begin at 1,824 euros per month, with additional income from tips and overtime. Therapists enjoy a five-day work week under French labor laws and receive various employment benefits.
Government Support for Aspiring Therapists
National Skill Standard Test Available
The Thai Ministry of Labor is actively supporting skilled massage practitioners seeking international work opportunities. Those interested in verifying their qualifications can take the National Skill Standard Test through the Department of Skill Development, with more information available through the ministry’s hotline.
News
Thailand Cracks Down: Employers Must Secure Migrant Work Permits by March 30, 2025

On March 15, 2025, Thailand’s government issued a stern reminder to employers: ensure your registered migrant workers have proper work permits by March 30, or face severe penalties, including deportation of workers and hefty fines. This urgent call aims to tighten labor regulations and protect the legal status of migrants across the country.
Deadline Looms for Migrant Work Permits
Deputy Government Spokesman Kharom Polpornklang emphasized that employers who’ve listed their migrant workers with the Department of Labour online must finalize the permit process before the cutoff. Time’s ticking—failure to comply will strip workers of their legal standing, triggering a cascade of consequences for both employees and employers alike.
What Employers Need to Do
To meet the requirements, employers must submit key documents by March 30: health certificates, proof of health insurance, social security paperwork, and a 1,000-baht fee per worker. It’s a straightforward process, but the stakes are high. Completing it ensures workers can legally stay and work in Thailand until March 31, 2026, with biometric data collection sealing the deal post-approval.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Miss the deadline, and the fallout is harsh. Undocumented workers will be deemed illegal, facing fines between 5,000 and 50,000 baht, followed by deportation and a two-year ban from employment in Thailand. Employers aren’t off the hook either—hiring undocumented migrants post-deadline could cost them 10,000 to 100,000 baht per worker, plus a three-year ban on hiring migrants. The government isn’t playing around with this crackdown.
Why It Matters Now
This push reflects Thailand’s broader effort to regulate its migrant workforce, a vital cog in industries like construction, agriculture, and hospitality. With legal status on the line, employers are urged to act fast to avoid disruptions and protect their operations. For workers, it’s a chance to secure stability in a country that relies heavily on their labor.
Act Before It’s Too Late
The clock is counting down to March 30, 2025. Employers have a narrow window to get migrant work permits in order—or risk losing their workforce and facing steep penalties. Don’t wait until it’s too late; compliance now means a smoother, legal future for all involved.
News
Thailand Unveils Cutting-Edge Human Verification to Combat AI Fraud in 2025

On March 15, 2025, Thailand took a bold leap into the future of digital security with the launch of World’s proof of human technology, a groundbreaking system designed to distinguish real people from bots in an increasingly AI-dominated online world. This innovative tool promises to bolster trust, enhance privacy, and shield Thais from the rising tide of AI-driven scams.
A New Era of Digital Trust Begins
Teaming up with the Thailand International Digital Business & Finance Centre (TIDC), the rollout kicks off with three accessible locations in Bangkok: the World flagship at Emsphere’s first floor, NT Service Centre Chaengwattana, and NT Service Centre Pathumwan. This marks the initial phase of a broader expansion across Thailand, launched at a critical moment. Last year, the nation faced over 168 million scam attempts—a staggering doubling from 2023—fueled by AI-powered fraud, deepfakes, and fake identities. World’s technology offers a timely, privacy-focused fix to verify human users without compromising personal data.
Tackling the AI Fraud Epidemic
As artificial intelligence evolves, so do the challenges of separating genuine humans from bots online—a global issue hitting Thailand hard. Over the past 13 months, online fraud has drained 42 billion baht ($1.2 billion) from the country, driven by AI tricks like deepfake voices and synthetic media. Traditional verification methods, which often demand personal info, fall short against these sophisticated threats. World’s proof of human technology steps in with a fresh approach, using advanced cryptography to confirm humanness securely and anonymously, setting a new benchmark for digital safety in 2025.
Privacy-First Innovation for All
“Thailand’s digital landscape is thriving, with over 52 million social media users relying on online platforms daily,” said Wai Man Raymond Chu, TIDC’s Executive Director. “But with that comes vulnerability. Our partnership with World delivers a solution that lets people prove they’re real without risking their privacy, keeping Thailand a leader in secure digital progress.” Unlike older systems, this technology skips data collection, leaning on zero-knowledge proofs and biometric checks to block AI impersonation while keeping users in control.
Empowering Thais in the Digital Economy
Beyond fighting fraud, World’s proof of human service aims to weave Thais deeper into the digital economy. It opens doors to over 100 Mini Apps—think educational tools, games, and community hubs—while offering verified users an optional perk: a one-time grant of Worldcoin tokens (WLD), claimable monthly for a year. “We’re thrilled to bring this to Thailand, where AI fraud is a pressing issue,” said Thiri Myint, Asia Pacific Regional Manager at Tools For Humanity, a core contributor to World. “It’s a step toward a safer, more inclusive online future.”
How to Get Started Today
Starting March 15, 2025, Thais can visit the three Bangkok hubs to sign up. More locations are slated to roll out as demand grows. This launch isn’t just about security—it’s about building a digital Thailand where trust and privacy coexist, empowering users to thrive amid AI’s rapid rise. Don’t wait to join the revolution in human authentication.
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