Thailand and the Challenges in Achieving Goal 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

The current status of gender equality in Thailand remains a matter of concern, as reflected in the country's performance on Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality. The goal continues to face significant challenges, with recent assessments indicating a lack of progress. Moreover, the stagnation in achieving SDG 5 may potentially hinder progress across other dimensions of sustainable development. This study is therefore significant for analyzing the underlying challenges and proposing strategies for more effective implementation. The objectives of this study are threefold: 1) study the definition, significance, standard indicators, and current status of Thailand’s progress toward SDG 5 2) analyze the critical factors that hinder its achievement, and 3) recommend strategies recommendations to overcome these challenges and promote sustainable progress. The findings indicate that between 2019 and 2024, Thailand’s performance in SDG 5 remained within a “significant challenges” status, although showing moderate progress. However, in 2024, the trend shifted to stagnation due to five critical challenges: 1) inadequate full and effective participation of women in decision-making at all levels; 2) limited access to economic resources, land, and property ownership; 3) persistence of harmful practices and restricted access to sexual and reproductive health services; 4) gender bias and discrimination; and 5) outdated or insufficient gender-related data. This study recommends two key strategies: first, addressing gender bias by promoting positive portrayals of women’s leadership and participation in media and culture to eliminate discrimination and enhance women's safety; and second, regularly updating gender-related data to ensure evidence-based policymaking that aligns with actual social needs. Both strategies must be implemented concurrently, as the absence of either may undermine Thailand’s ability to achieve SDG 5 effectively and sustainably.