Thailand is currently accelerating policies to encourage childbearing among couples to address the low birth rate.
1 in 5 of Thai people are single.
However, in terms of social status, the National Statistical Office’s 2023 Household Socio-Economic Survey (SES)
indicates that a growing number of Thai people are single, with 1 in 5 being single, which accounts for 23.9 % of the overall population.
Among those of reproductive age, the proportion of single individuals is at 40.5 %,
nearly double the national average, up from 35. 7 % in 2017. Factors contributing to singlehood can be divided into 4 dimensions, including:
1)Modern social values: such as SINK (Single Income, No Kids) or individuals who focus on self-spending without children. SES 2023 data shows that the proportion of SINK individuals increases with income level.
2.8 million of professional single woman (PANK)
PANK (Professional Aunt, No Kids) refers to single women aged 30 and over,
who have a good income or career and no children, often focus on taking care of nieces and nephews around their surroundings.
There are 2.8 million PANK individuals, most of whom have good incomes and high educational degrees. Waithood refers to individuals who delay relationships due to unpreparedness or economic instability.
This group could be observed in 40 % of single people in the lowest income bracket,
predominantly males (62.6 %), with limited earning abilities due to lower education levels;
Mismatch may cause more single
2) Mismatched needs and expectations: changing social expectations and attitudes towards partners make finding a suitable partner difficult.
A 2021 survey by MeetNLunch (Thailand) found that 76 % of women would not date a man who earns less,
and 83.0 % would not date a shorter man. Conversely, 59 % of men would not date a taller woman, and 60 % would not date a divorced woman;
Bangkok ranks 5th in the city with the heaviest workload
3) Chances to meet people: In 2023, single individuals have working hours higher than the national average. Additionally, Bangkok ranks 5th in the city with the heaviest workload. This has limited opportunities for single individuals to find partners.
4) Inconsistent government policies to promote relationships and insufficient for the needs of the singles: Thailand’s policy to promote partnerships hasn’t been extensive in recent years, focusing mainly on single individuals who are ready. In contrast, other countries offer more comprehensive support to promote coupling that include alleviating financial burdens and creating opportunities for individuals to find partners.
Suggestion for single people to find partners
Secretary General to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), Danucha Pichayanan said however, there are supportive guidelines to help single individuals find partners as follows.
- 1) Supporting tools for matching single people through collaboration between the government and service providers to develop platforms that facilitate greater access for single individuals;
- 2) Promoting work – life balance in both the public and private sectors which will help single people receive a higher quality of life, giving them more chance to engage in activities they enjoy and to meet new people;
- 3) Upgrading work – related skills to increase opportunities for career advancement and income through courses that enhance both soft and hard skills. This can also provide single individuals with the chance to find partners within educational institutions;
- 4) Consistently promoting social activities and participation to provide single people with opportunities to meet, converse, and build new relationships through various activities.
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