Thailand has a relatively low homicide rate compared to other countries in the world. According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), the homicide rate in Thailand in 2020 was 2.4 per 100,000 people. This is significantly lower than the global average homicide rate of 5.9 per 100,000 people. The homicide rate in Thailand is a good indicator of the violence and crime of the country. The main reason is that homicides are easy to calculate, largely reported. They are not like other crimes that could be not reported for many reasons (sexual crimes) or varies from a country to another (drugs, like marijuana can be legal in Canada or Thailand and illegal in other countries). If you want to know more about “criminal law in Thailand, click here“.
Homicide rates
Homicide rates in Thailand have been declining in recent years. In 2010, the homicide rate was 3.4 per 100,000 people. By 2020, it had fallen to 2.4 per 100,000 people. This decline is likely due to a number of factors, including improved law enforcement, increased public awareness of crime, and economic development.
Despite the relatively low homicide rate, there are some areas of Thailand where the rate is higher. For example, the southern provinces of Thailand have a higher homicide rate than the rest of the country. This is due to a long-running insurgency in the region.
Sources
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME): https://vizhub.healthdata.org/gbd-compare/
Links to find the data about homicide rates in Thailand
- IHME GBD Compare: https://vizhub.healthdata.org/gbd-compare/
Is Thailand a dangerous country?
Overall, Thailand is not a dangerous country. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. If you are traveling to Thailand, be sure to register with the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country. This will make it easier for the Thai authorities to contact you in case of an emergency. The homicide rate in Thailand is quite low.
What to do if someone you know is accused of homicide in Thailand
If someone you know is accused of homicide in Thailand, it is important to seek legal advice immediately. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against your loved one and represent them in court.
What to do if someone you know is the victim of homicide in Thailand
If someone you know is the victim of homicide in Thailand, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the government. You may also want to contact a victim support organization for emotional support and guidance.
Additional tips for staying safe in Thailand
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
- Do not carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you.
- Be careful when using public transportation.
- Be wary of strangers who approach you.
- Do not drink too much alcohol, especially if you are alone.
- If you are involved in a crime, cooperate with the police.
The perpetrator is mostly known by the victim
However, you might be surprised to know that According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in 2017, 71% of homicide victims worldwide knew their perpetrator. This number varied depending on the region, with the highest proportions in Africa (89%) and the Americas (76%). Only 25% of murders are committed by perfect strangers.
If you have any questions or concerns about safety in Thailand, please contact the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country.
