Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol, Networking & Collaboration Officer, gave her perspective on the actual relations of persons with Autism and their family members.

Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit, DIEB Project Coordinator, translate Mr. Kevin Cook Intervention to the subcommittee members.

Mr. Kevin Cook, SPD Foreign Lecturer from Thammasat University, shared his experience and insight when he was a personal assistant to persons with autism in the USA.

APCD Engages in National Dialogue on Personal Assistant (PA) System Reform

On 6 October 2026, Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol, APCD Networking & Collaboration Officer and Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit, DIEB Project Coordinator represented Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) as invited by the Committee on Social Welfare, House of Representatives, to participate in crucial discussions reviewing welfare criteria for caregivers and Personal Assistants (PAs).  

A recent comprehensive study highlights significant structural challenges within Thailand's current PA system, including delayed registration processes, slow budget disbursements, an inadequate compensation rate, and regional service disparities. While stakeholders hold differing views on permitting family members to register as PAs—balancing family economic relief with the independent living rights of persons with disabilities—there is a strong consensus on the urgent need for comprehensive systemic reform.

APCD continues to contribute valuable perspectives to help shape inclusive, rights-based policy recommendations that effectively address both caregiver burdens, and the diverse support needs of persons with disabilities.