The Cabinet resolved to approve the establishment of the “Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund,” amending the law to create a crucial mechanism that enhances flexibility, reduces compensation procedures, and guarantees continuity in fiscal support.
21 Apr 2026 GMT+7 Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that at today's Cabinet meeting, the members approved the establishment of the "Fund for Relief and Rehabilitation of Disaster Victims." This fund will be incorporated into the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation law by amending the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act B.E. 2550 (2007) to ensure that relief, assistance, compensation, and rehabilitation for disaster victims are carried out efficiently and continuously without obstacles.
Since the Act has been the primary law used for over 18 years, serving as the main legal framework and important tool defining the state's role and authority in managing disasters effectively and cohesively, it now faces challenges as disasters occur more frequently and severely. Although the government provides assistance through the central budget, budgetary constraints have led to delays in compensation.
From 2003 to 2026, the government has allocated approximately 123 billion baht for disaster relief, averaging 5.3 billion baht annually, with the budget reaching as high as 25 billion baht in 2026. Therefore, establishing the Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund within the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation law will secure a reliable source of funds for relief, assistance, compensation, and rehabilitation of disaster victims, providing greater flexibility and reducing procedural steps in disbursing aid. This will serve as a guarantee for financial continuity.
“This initiative aligns with the Prime Minister's policy, as stated in the parliamentary address, aiming to develop a comprehensive system to care for every household affected by disasters. It designs a management mechanism suitable for the country's context, considers fiscal sustainability, and enables swift, fair protection and compensation for those impacted.”