Thailand To Promote 6 Women To General

Thailand plans to appoint its first female generals next month in a gesture of support for women’s rights, a Defense Ministry official said Thursday.

The promotions mark an unprecedented breakthrough for women in one of the country’s most powerful institutions. Until now, the only women elevated to the rank of general have been members of the Thai royal family.

Thai newspapers reported that six women will be promoted to major general. The ministry official would not confirm the number. But he said the promotions would apply to women in medicine, nursing and administration.