THE CRIMINAL OFFENSE OF INCITEMENT TO COMMIT UICIDE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN THE THAI PENAL CODE AND FOREIGN LEGISLATION
Keywords:
Criminal Offense, Incitement to Commit Suicide, Penal CodeAbstract
This study analyzes and compares criminal laws related to incitement to suicide in the Kingdom of Thailand and other countries, highlighting the evolution of legal frameworks and differing social perspectives. In the Kingdom of Thailand, suicide is not considered a criminal offense; however, incitement or assistance in committing suicide is classified as an offense under Section 293 of the Penal Code. This provision, influenced by Soviet law, has been adapted to fit the Thai context, particularly in its emphasis on protecting minors under the age of 16. In other countries, such as England, suicide was historically regarded as a crime but was decriminalized in 1961. The law now specifically penalizes incitement or assistance in suicide. In the United States, approaches vary by state: some classify incitement to suicide as a form of homicide, while others do not consider it a crime. Meanwhile, in the French Republic, suicide is regarded as a matter of personal freedom, and there is no criminal liability for incitement except in cases involving minors or individual’s incapable of making their own decisions. The Swiss Confederation offers an intriguing case study, as its laws impose penalties only when incitement or assistance is motivated by self-serving intentions. Acts driven by altruistic reasons, such as compassion for a suffering patient, are not considered offenses. This legal framework reflects a balance between empathy, personal freedom, and societal responsibility. The findings reveal that while perspectives on suicide vary across nations, most agree that incitement or assistance in suicide constitutes a crime, grounded in moral principles and the necessity of safeguarding human life. The study underscores the importance of developing legal measures that align with the evolving social context and values in the future.
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