The primary objective of this study is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the current implementation of the Thai government's electronic monitoring (EM) policy. The Department of Probation has extensively adopted EM equipment for operational use, with over 30,000 sets of equipmen in circulation. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate and research the outcomes of their use. This research, conducted by the Thailand Institute of Justice, aims to gain additional information on the first-hand effects of EM equipment on both persons being monitored and probation officers responsible for their use. Through this study, the researchers aim to compare the practical outcomes of EM equipment use with the original government policy objectives and rationale. By doing so, the researchers hope to identify potential issues and shortcomings in the current policy governing the use of EM equipment and provide reco mmendations to improve the existing policy. In investigating the potential gendered implications of electronic monitoring (EM) as a tool for rehabilitating ex-prisoners, the researchers conducted in-depth discussions with 34 probation officers and 43 parolees who were previously or currently monitored by EM equipment in various regions of Thailand. The study aimed to explore the impact of gender on pathways to imprisonment and the gendered implications on the effectiveness of EM in Thai probation, under the current operating conditions and policies in place in Thailand. The Thailand Institute of Justice hopes that this study and its findings will be beneficial as an assessment of the use of EM equipment in Thailand's probation system, giving much needed clarity as the scope and scale for EM use has been expanding significantly in recent years. The report identifies challenges that have been brought about by the current policies and guidelines on EM use by the Department of Probation as well as by other policy overhauls, provides first-hand accounts of the experiences so far in implementing EM use, and contains a number of adjustments and recommendations which could be implemented in order for such resources as EM to be more effectively deployed in support of the goals of the probation system for the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society and to be sure the sustainability of such reintegration by preventing recidivism. The Thailand Institute of Justice sincerely hopes that this report will serve as an anchor for future research and discourse on the issue as well as serve to inform policy-making within Thailand and beyond on successful implementation of EM use for women that is gender-sensitive, specific and effective.
Prisoners on the Outside: Gender, Drugs and Electronically Monitored Parole in Thailand
19 ส.ค. 2568
