The formal position by the Thai state is that Mae Chi’s are not included in the religious realm and have limited rights to that of monks. The unclear position of the Mae Chi is Thai society is furthered by the Thai Government. According to the Ministry of the Interior, the Mae Chi is seen as a ‘skilled ordained’, this is the same status as monks. This means that Mae Chi, like monks, are not able to participate in the voting process, because they have renounce all worldly commitments.