Democrat forum talks animal welfareThe Democrat Party convened a public forum bringing together animal rights advocates and wildlife experts to push for amendments to the country's anti-animal cruelty law to explicitly cover wild animals. "Regardless of the political climate, political parties must remain attentive to issues arising in society," he said, adding that the forum provided an opportunity to hear perspectives from specialists, particularly on the issue of human-wildlife conflict. Panellists highlighted legal gaps in the current Animal Cruelty Prevention and Welfare Act, arguing that enforcement often focuses on domestic or economic animals, while wild animals fall primarily under conservation laws that centre on state management rather than welfare protections. Among the speakers were Theerapat Trangprakan, former president of the Thai Elephant Alliance Association; animal rights advocate and anchorwoman Narakorn Tiyayon; and Roger Lohanan, secretary-general of the Thai Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. They stressed the need for clearer legal standards and scientific protocols, particularly concerning the relocation of wild elephants, warning that poorly planned transfers can cause severe stress, injury or death.

Source: Bangkok Post February 19, 2026 18:17 UTC