The Royal Police Cadet Academy announced this week that it will not admit female candidates from the next academic year. It has given no explanation for the decision.

“This is a very backward move for women’s rights and women’s safety in Thailand.” – Jadet Chaowilai, director of the rights group Women and Men Progressive Movement.

Rights groups say the ban, if confirmed by the government, infringes Thailand’s Constitution regarding the Gender Equality Act. Sutharee Wannasir, human rights specialist with @FortifyRights told RFI’s Alison Hird it will also affect police efficiency in dealing with sexual abuse cases.