text: certain provisions of the Convention. 55. The principle of non-discrimination was included in the Thai Constitution of 1978, which stipulated that all were equal before the law. The Trafficking of Women and Girls Act of 1928, the Prostitution Suppression Act of I960 and the Penal Code of 1956, as amended, were consistent with article 6 of the Convention. The right to education was guaranteed by the Constitution and there was six years' universal compulsory schooling and a 97 per cent literacy rate. An array of laws provided for the protection of women in employment, including a 1972 Ministry of Labour notification providing for equal pay for men and women and 60 days' paid maternity leave. The administration of matrimonial property, which prior to 1976 had been the exclusive right of the husband, was now recognized as being the responsibility of both spouses. Discrimination in relation to certain professions, which had previously barred women from becoming public prosecutors and judges, had now been eliminated. Lastly, in 1987, the Penal Code, which previously had contained provisions protecting girls aged 13 and under against sexual violence, had raised the minimum age of consent to 15. (Ms. Suprata Masdit. Thailand) 56. The crucial issue in Thailand was de facto discrimination, since the de jure situation was relatively satisfactory. Such discrimination was prevalent in employment, where women's contribution in terms of housework had not been accorded enough attention; in wages, although equality in law was guaranteed in public life, where the number of women in Parliament was still too limited; in local government; and in the judiciary. On the other hand, there was virtual parity between men and women in international organizations. 57. Another issue of note was the breakdown of the family system as evidenced by 
analysis: The text appears to discuss the status of women's rights in Thailand, specifically highlighting the progress made in terms of laws and policies, as well as the remaining challenges and areas of concern. The focus is on the social and economic aspects of women's lives, with mentions of education, employment, family, and judiciary. There is no mention of natural resources, environment, industry, or international trade.