Thang Rath Supports Equal Access to Rights and Services for People with Disabilities
After Pride Month in June, July is observed around the world as Disability Pride Month. It is a reminder that everyone should have equal access to public services, including people with disabilities.
Disability Pride Month has its roots in July 1990, when the Americans with Disabilities Act became law in the United States. The law advances equal opportunity, independence and freedom for people with disabilities. The month is an opportunity to celebrate disability identity, build understanding and reduce discrimination.
People with disabilities make up about 3.43% of Thailand’s population, or around 2.27 million people. This includes people with mobility, visual, hearing and intellectual disabilities. Awareness of disability rights and needs has grown in Thailand over the years.
The Thai government has been improving Thang Rath to better serve people who face barriers to access. Its approach puts people at the centre of service design so that everyone can access public services on equal terms. DGA is proud to help develop services that make it easier for people with disabilities to find information about their rights and use public services.
Here are five Thang Rath services that make it easier to access disability rights and public services.
1. Disability employment compliance check. Under Section 33, employers and government agencies must employ people with disabilities who can work, in accordance with labour protection rules or criteria set by the Civil Service Commission, as applicable. This service helps users check whether employers meet the legal conditions and requirements. It supports equal employment opportunities and a more inclusive society.
2. Disability welfare information. Users can check their entitlements and find information about sign-language interpreters, foster families, general disability service centres and personal assistants for people with disabilities.
3. Disability fund loan repayments. Users can see their loan history, repayment details and guarantors’ names, view loan agreements, and make repayments using a QR code.
4. Disability allowance. Users can check eligibility, payment history and bank account details. They can also find out where to register and what documents to bring, and receive a notification when the monthly allowance is paid.
5. Disability identification card. Users can view card details and associated benefits, and receive an expiry reminder so they can plan their renewal.
Disability Pride Month is a reminder to support equal rights and opportunities in education, work and every aspect of community life. DGA is proud that Thang Rath helps people with disabilities access more of the services they are entitled to, during Disability Pride Month and throughout the year.
Rights should be accessible to everyone. Download Thang Rath through Google Play, the App Store or Huawei AppGallery.