Director of the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women Campaigns on the Issue of Violence Against Women. 69% Admit to Being Abused Countless Times and Seek Help. 79% Are Depressed. 37% Are Terrified. Discussion “Changing the Shock… from the Drama on a Rainy Day to the Power to Stop Domestic Violence” Praises the Drama for Reflecting Society and Joining in Driving the Problem-Solving Process.
On July 10th at TK Palace Hotel, the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women, Gender and Development Research Institute (GDRI) organized a seminar. “Turn the Heartbreak… from the Drama On a Rainy Day into a Force to Stop Domestic Violence.” The purpose of the seminar was to raise awareness among society regarding the impact of domestic violence and explore alternative solutions.
Dr. Panpimol Wipulakorn, President of the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women, gave the opening speech: “Thailand is learning how to view media as a tool for communication and understanding, especially on the issue of violence in society, which still persists and has not decreased. We face many crises, and as we know, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected social stability around the world, including the situation of children and women. We always hope for improvement, but the situation has yet to change. Today, we will have a discussion and exchange of ideas.”
“The drama provides an important perspective by helping us understand women who are subjected to violence. I want us to recognize the role of social workers, who act as a mechanism for society to solve problems. My hope is that today’s event will encourage us to fully participate in driving this problem-solving process together.” Dr. Panpimol said
The discussion stage featured speakers including Sutapa Chantakhet, a drama director; Kong Piya, a drama producer; Maneerat Kham-uan, an actress from the drama Nai Wan Fon Prang Phrai; Krawin Worasuk, a social welfare expert at the emergency shelter, a representative of former members of the emergency shelter; and Usa Lertsrisantat, director of the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women.
Krawin shared that from a social worker’s perspective, he is proud of his profession. He did not graduate directly into this field but learned, grew, and trained in the field of social work. The Emergency Home strives to work alongside women and children facing various challenges. This drama reflects every aspect of social problems, such as human trafficking, which is a key area of focus for the Emergency Home. It also addresses issues of human trafficking, migrant workers, and women who are not prepared for pregnancy. The work of any single organization cannot solve these issues. In this era, collaboration is essential. The Emergency Home is not just a single entity but also benefits from various networks, including lawyers, police, human rights organizations, and professional organizations, who come together to support women and work collaboratively to empower them to return to their normal lives as quickly as possible.
Nut, a representative of the emergency shelter, shared her story as a victim of violence. She experienced a lot of suffering and pain, feeling so overwhelmed that she almost took her own life. However, she found support and care from others, and that prevented her from following through with her suicidal thoughts. She endured abuse for two to three years before reaching her breaking point. If she stayed, the abuse would only worsen. So, she left her child and ran away to escape the violence. At that time, she was unaware of her legal rights. She tried to reach out to someone who knew the child’s father, and when she might finally seek help for herself, she mightn’t find her child. It was like being completely lost in the darkness. She later discovered that the man had a new partner and was raising her child. She requested to see her child, but he denied her request and she was charged with trespassing. She reached out to the Women’s Friend Foundation, and they were able to help her reunite with her child. Seeking safety, she went to the emergency shelter, where she might finally feel secure and free from fear and further harm. Still, her case is only one among many others who have experienced abuse. Despite her situation, people supported and helped her. She stayed at the emergency shelter for six months before finding employment. Today, she is happily raising her child and has a stable income. She expressed gratitude to everyone who assisted her during that difficult period. She wants everyone to know that shelters like the one depicted in the drama exist.
Usa stated that she wanted to utilize this opportunity to raise awareness regarding violence once morest women. Previously, many individuals viewed these issues as sensitive and separate from entertainment or dramas. But today, we have brought these two aspects together. In dramas, the mothers of the male and female leads often play a pivotal role. When we discuss violence, we must consider its roots, which often lie in family dynamics. What we see in dramas reflects the limitations and choices women face in addressing their problems. Nut’s story is a testament to her incredible bravery in escaping violence. However, our research study of 54 women who completed a questionnaire revealed that very few women dare to come forward and seek help.
Sixty-nine percent of the women in our study stated that they had to endure countless instances of abuse before they finally sought help. This suggests that there are many more women who are still suffering silently. The news we see regarding cases of violence, whether it be fatal incidents or women seeking assistance from organizations like emergency shelters, only represents a small fraction of the true number. It’s estimated that only regarding 200 cases are reported each year. So, how many women are still suffering in silence? This is because our message of awareness might not have reached them yet.
Usa further added that the study revealed that 79 percent of women who suffer from depression as a result of abuse are abused by someone they love or a family member. This clearly reflects the situation portrayed in the drama, highlighting that the problem of women in distress is a concern that requires a collective solution. Moreover, 37 percent of women are still living in fear and are still trying to conform to societal expectations of being a “good woman.” The findings of this study are particularly significant: 63 percent of women who are legally married tend to be more indifferent than those who are not married, often feeling unsure of what to do. Some women might even plead for the violence to stop.
Among women who are not legally married, 45 percent remain indifferent.Three out of four women who provided information indicated that they did not consider reporting to the police or seeking any help. Only 19 percent reported to the police but did not pursue the case, only choosing to file a daily record. Very few women reported to the police and took legal action. Those seeking refuge in emergency shelters mostly sought safety and did not pursue legal action.
Usa continued her remarks by acknowledging that many women are hesitant to seek the help they need, whether due to personal issues or fear of social stigma. However, she emphasized that the scenarios presented in the drama are a reflection of real-life situations that occur in families and often lead to tragic consequences. While Mai’s mother ultimately chose not to take her own life, many women have been killed by their husbands. Therefore, the police play a crucial role in providing assistance to victims. She appealed to the police to recognize that their duty is not to mediate but to ensure the safety of individuals. They must separate the perpetrators from the victims and refer them to various agencies so that women can assess their situation and make informed decisions regarding their next steps.
“The police should not be asking why someone was beaten. Such questioning only reinforces the blame on the women. It also perpetuates the societal perception that violence occurs because women fail to fulfill their obligations. It’s rooted in the deeply ingrained notion that women are the property of men and can be beaten and abused. Therefore, I would like to use what we see in the drama to remind society that everyone can help and be on the front lines of providing assistance to women in society and the community to prevent them from falling into a cycle of violence,” Usa stated.
The discussion highlighted that women continue to lack adequate access to assistance, particularly from government agencies. While policies exist to help women, policies alone are insufficient. The government’s mechanism through the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) is not enough. The responsible agency, a division within the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Institute, lacks the authority to coordinate all organizations involved in managing violence. The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has emergency assistance centers for women who have experienced different forms of violence in the emergency departments of various hospitals. However, there have been instances where women are told they must first file a complaint before receiving assistance. Therefore, clear national regulations need to be established in this area. The research clearly indicates that all agencies require a strong national mechanism that promotes collaboration and establishes consistent standards, including reforming state emergency shelters.
Invite to Watch “In the Day of Rain”, a Drama Reflecting Society, Revealing the Problem of Domestic Violence.
Kong Piya stated that the drama “Wan Nai Fon Prang Prai” is based on a foundation of reality that resonates with audiences, incorporating elements of real-life research, such as the court scenes.
Sutapa explained her decision to adapt this story, stating that she was moved by the novel “Wan Nai Fon Prang Prai” by Pimol, particularly the relatable and human nature of the main characters. The drama explores the realities of individuals facing various problems, including the characters’ backgrounds marked by family and societal challenges. She felt compelled to bring this story to the screen, and she collaborated with Kong Piya. In this era, society seeks fresh content, and presenting a realistic perspective of society is likely to be well-received. The challenge lies in the perception that such dramas, reflecting real-life struggles, may lack wide appeal and discourage producers due to their potentially depressing nature. However, they believed that this story, representing issues prevalent in society, deserved to be shared and presented in a way that inspires dialogue and solutions.
“If we can create a ripple effect, society will address these issues and work to reduce them. It’s better than ignoring the problem altogether. When it comes to dramas, adding entertainment elements helps make the audience feel good. We depict a couple who, despite their challenging backgrounds, find love as their foundation and offer healing to the audience. This adds weight to the story. In addition to the novel, the plot centers around the law, which is the male lead’s profession. The role of the female lead is also clearly defined in the novel. After reading this novel, I have a deep appreciation for social workers. They make true sacrifices, working day following day to address difficult issues. It involves mental suffering, emotional wounds, and the constant engagement with problems. But those who work in this field have remarkable strength and resilience,” Sutapa emphasized.
Maneerat shared that playing the role of a social worker, Mai, in the drama presented a significant challenge for her as an actress. To portray the strength she envisioned for the character, she had to delve deep. Moreover, the drama’s producer and director had a clear vision for the role, which required her to tap into her own inner strength. A social worker needs to possess compassion and unwavering stability, unaffected by emotions. They must manage their own emotions to provide steady support for individuals in distress who seek their guidance and help. They must be able to handle sensitive and difficult situations. She aimed to convey Mai’s extraordinary strength, highlighting her ability to offer advice and support to others. Since taking on this role, she has gained a deeper understanding of the suffering faced by others. She now feels that we should not contribute to the suffering of others but instead consider how we can help.
Turning Heartbreak into Action: A Seminar on Domestic Violence and the Power of Drama
On July 10th, the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women, in collaboration with the Gender and Development Research Institute (GDRI), hosted a seminar titled “Turn the heartbreak… from the drama On a Rainy Day into a force to stop domestic violence.” The aim of the event was to raise awareness regarding the prevalence and impact of domestic violence in Thailand and explore alternative solutions.
The Power of Media
Dr. Panpimol Wipulakorn, President of the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women, emphasized the role of media in shaping public understanding and promoting change. She highlighted the alarming persistence of domestic violence in Thai society, even amidst social and economic challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The important perspective from the drama is that it helps us understand women who are subject to violence. I want us to know the role of social workers who work as a mechanism of society to solve problems. I hope that today’s stage will make us fully participate in driving forward the problem-solving together,” Dr. Panpimol stated.
Voices from the Frontline
The seminar featured a panel discussion with experts from diverse backgrounds, including:
- Sutapa Chantakhet, drama director of On a Rainy Day
- Kong Piya, drama producer
- Maneerat Kham-uan, actress from the drama
- Krawin Worasuk, social welfare expert at an emergency shelter
- Nut, a representative of former members of the emergency shelter
- Usa Lertsrisantat, director of the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women
A Call for Action: Statistics and Solutions
Usa Lertsrisantat presented alarming research findings that underscored the need for immediate action once morest domestic violence.
Key Statistics:
| Stat | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Women who experienced repeated abuse before seeking help | 69% |
| Women experiencing depression as a result of abuse | 79% |
| Women living in a persistent state of fear | 37% |
| Women reporting domestic violence to the police | 19% |
These statistics paint a stark picture of the hidden epidemic of domestic violence in Thailand. The seminar served as a platform to raise awareness and inspire action.
The Power of Partnership
Krawin Worasuk, representing the emergency shelter, highlighted the crucial role of collaborative networks in addressing domestic violence. He emphasized the need for joint efforts involving various stakeholders, including social workers, lawyers, police, human rights organizations, and government agencies.
Nut, a former resident of the emergency shelter, bravely shared her personal story of enduring abuse and ultimately seeking refuge. Her testimony served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of survivors, while emphasizing the need for accessible and supportive resources.
The Role of Drama: Raising Awareness and Sparking Change
Sutapa Chantakhet, the director of On a Rainy Day, explained her decision to adapt the novel into a drama, acknowledging its impact on public discourse regarding domestic violence. She emphasized the importance of using fiction to shed light on societal realities and inspire change.
“If it can create a ripple effect, society will not let this kind of thing go and reduce these problems. It’s better than not talking regarding it at all. When it’s a drama, add entertainment to make the audience feel good. There are a couple who, despite their difficult backgrounds, have love as their foundation and heal the audience’s hearts. This adds weight,” Sutapa shared.
Maneerat Kham-uan, the actress who portrayed Mai, a social worker in the drama, spoke regarding the challenges and rewards of embodying a character dedicated to supporting others. She acknowledged the responsibility of portraying a character who embodies strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to helping victims of domestic violence.
Moving Forward: Advocacy for Comprehensive Change
The seminar concluded with a call to action for a multi-faceted approach to tackling domestic violence in Thailand.
While acknowledging the existence of government policies aimed at protecting women, participants stressed the need for comprehensive systemic change. This includes strengthening the role of social workers, improving coordination between agencies, and establishing clear national regulations for emergency assistance.
The seminar emphasized that combating domestic violence requires a collective effort involving individuals, families, communities, and government agencies. The organizers encouraged community members to take active roles in creating safer environments for women and children, supporting organizations working on the front lines, and holding perpetrators accountable.