The aim of this study is to analyse the economic and social role of women in the wake of the strong economic growth experienced by Thailand over the last few decades. The first section will deal with the social-cultural and historic background including the legal, religious, educational, political, social, and symbolic representation of women. The second part will look at the role played by women in the country’s economic activity. Finally, the third part will analyze the effects of urbanization, industrialization, globalization, and westernization on social and family structures, and on cultural values.