PUBLISHED: 23 Sep 2024 at 17: 46
The government is considering granting freelancers the same security benefits as those who are SSF registered, with the exception of revenue fees.
According to Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, the government is in conversation with several companies to set up a security system to protect independent employees, such as tour guides, ride-hailing company drivers and riders, website content creators, and sexual workers.
In accordance with the new system, freelancers can say health and other social security benefits the same way they can for employees who have registered with the Social Security Office.
Nevertheless, they must consider their income and pay the required income, he said.
Mr. Sorawong said the decision came after representatives from various civil and labor advocacy organizations discussed the possible difficulties in establishing a system.  ,
Sex workers are requesting welfare benefits and constitutional protections, but many do not, according to SMG staff, because of the nature of their jobs, he said.
The Professional Tourist Guide Association of Thailand made a point of emphasis during the debate about the immediate need to provide security to independent contractors in the hospitality industry, citing their significant factor to the nation’s economy.
The government plans to present a bill for security protection for freelancers in the upcoming legislative session based on the sources of various civil and labor advocacy groups, he said.