The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour discussed reforming the Social Security Office, with all parties agreeing on a major restructuring. A framework was set to overhaul the system in three dimensions, alongside an announcement to recruit agencies to study the model for the fastest possible clarity. Insured persons proposed “Ice Rakchanok and Sahasawat” as advisors.
On 6 Feb 2026 GMT+7 at the Social Security Office headquarters in Nonthaburi, Pol. Lt. Col. Wannapong Kotcharak, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, chaired a meeting of advisors and the working group studying the structure for reforming the Social Security Office (SSO). This was the first meeting after appointing representatives from related agencies, including employers and insured persons, to create a roadmap for restructuring the Social Security Office’s management to be completed within 60 days.
After nearly four hours of discussion, Pol. Lt. Col. Wannapong stated that the meeting was constructive. All sectors reflected problems and proposed solutions based on real experience to lead social security reform. The meeting agreed on three main issues needing urgent resolution: 1) the bureaucratic system constrained by official regulations causing delays and failing to meet needs or hardships; 2) transparency and good governance with public access to information; and 3) an organizational management style appropriate for future contexts. The meeting recommended inviting expert organizations to conduct in-depth studies covering all three aspects to design a clear organizational structure, possibly followed by public consultation. Interested institutes or organizations may apply to join the study. Regarding the idea of private sector management of the fund, no conclusion was reached; it is unclear whether it would be 100% private or a certain entity entirely. The key is how to achieve the best outcome.
“I have assigned all parties to gather information to present at the next meeting. We will study all aspects to find a suitable model. I take this opportunity to invite various institutes and organizations to participate in this reform. You can apply without waiting for us to call you. This is a good chance to produce content and new models that suit modern management for the Social Security Office,” said the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour.
Kanchana Phoolkaew, Secretary-General of the Social Security Office, said the meeting had a harmonious atmosphere emphasizing participation from all parties, especially the procurement process for the study team to continue the work. They will open for opinions from insured persons, employers, and the government to ensure the reform progresses steadily and sustainably.
Meanwhile, Satsatram Thammabutdee, a social security committee member representing insured persons, said the bureaucratic structure affects transparency and the participation of many members. He hopes the current public interest and political momentum will lead to a Social Security Act draft to serve as a foundation for submission to the new government after the election, to drive reform of the country’s largest welfare organization.
Reporters noted that the Progressive Social Security Facebook page summarized the reform working group meeting, stating that insured persons proposed additional advisors including Rakchanok Srinok, Sahasawat Khumkhong, and a representative from the International Labour Organization (ILO). Employers proposed Anon Sakworawit, Sangsit Piriyarangsan, and Somkid Lertphaitoon. Additionally, insured persons urgently requested public hearings on the 2027 budget and livestreaming of Social Security Board meetings to restore confidence, recommending these topics be discussed further within the board.