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05 November 2024
World Tsunami Awareness Day â UN Secretary-General's Message (5 November 2024)
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Story
30 October 2024
Valuing teachersâ voices: Educators from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Viet Nam reflect on why their voices matterâin and out of the classroom
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Story
30 October 2024
UNDP Presents Climate Adaptation, Risk Projection, and Investment Solutions for Thailandâs Gulf Amid Climate Hazards
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Thailand
The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Thailand is dedicated to advancing all the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while emphasizing the importance of SDG localization, which brings the global agenda to the local level for effective impact. Amongst others, some highlights of our efforts encompass promoting integrated social protection for all (SDG 1.3), combatting non-communicable diseases (SDG 3.4), ensuring inclusive education, including migrant children (SDG 4.1), and advocating for women's participation in politics (SDG 5.5). We empower small to medium-sized enterprises and youth innovation, with a focus on business and human rights as well as digital transformation (SDG 8.3). Inclusive growth extends to marginalized groups, including the LGBTI community (SDG 10.2), while migration governance promotes safe, regular, and orderly migration (SDG 10.7). Our endeavors encompass implementing climate change strategies (SDG 13.2), solid waste management (SDG 11.6), and greening industry through promoting low carbon transition and finance among SMEs (SDG 7.2). Additionally, we strongly advocate for ensuring access to rights through inclusive citizenship (SDG 16.9), and share Thailand's experiences and best practices (SDG 17.9) through South-South and Triangular Cooperation. Through these collaborative efforts, we embark on a transformative journey to create a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous Thailand.
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31 July 2024
Act Now for Our Common Future
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04 July 2024
Visit to Thale Noi Wetlands Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System
Thale Noi represents a leading example of adaptive management of biological and natural resources as well as co-evolution based on deep environmental knowledge.
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Publication
17 April 2023
Impact Assessment of Climate Change and Environmental Degradation on Children in Thailand
The Impact Assessment of Climate Change and Environmental Degradation on Children in Thailand, authored by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) with the support of UNICEF Thailand, highlights that the most vulnerable children to climate change risks, such as droughts, heatwaves, and floods, are those living in the Northeastern and Southern regions of Thailand. The study's risk map reveals that ten provinces, namely Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Ratchasima, Si Sa Ket, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Surin, Songkhla, Buriram, Khon Kaen, and Surat Thani, are at high risk of climate change impacts between 2016 and 2035, particularly under the RCP4.5 scenario (moderate release of CO2).
To address these concerns, the study recommends implementing child-sensitive policies, including raising children's awareness and knowledge about climate change, promoting the development of climate-resilient school and health infrastructure, and implementing child-centered early warning systems.
Policy brief, technical note, and child-friendly version are also available for download.
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Press Release
08 April 2024
Global efforts needed to combat waste trafficking to Southeast Asia, new research by UNODC and UNEP reveals
Bangkok (Thailand), 2 April 2024 - A first-ever mapping of waste trafficking trends from Europe to Southeast Asia has been published today. Produced by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the new research sheds light on how criminal actors exploit legal trade and regulatory and enforcement loopholes for financial gain. It also explores the negative impact this crime has on the global circular economy.Southeast Asia remains a key destination for illicit waste shipments, the report reveals, with Europe, North America, and Asia identified as primary regions of origin. Common tactics include false declarations, a lack of or incorrect notifications to circumvent regulations and avoid controls, along with missing or inadequate licenses or documents. âIn todayâs globalized world, waste management has become an increasingly pressing concern in which production, consumption habits, waste crime, waste trafficking, corruption, organized crime, money laundering, and the circular economy are intertwined,â said Masood Karimipour, UNODC Regional Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific. âThe crime of waste trafficking is taking away the value that legal, well-regulated waste trade brings to sustainable economies.âData collected from four Southeast Asian countries, three major European Union ports, and international enforcement operations highlight efforts in tackling illegal waste shipments by both origin and destination countries. However, despite regulatory and enforcement measures implemented by countries in which illegal waste ends up â such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Viet Nam â waste trafficking continues to pose a major challenge in the region. âWaste trafficking is a crime that has a profound impact on the environment, bringing high profits and low risks to perpetrators. If we are to fight this crime, we must change this by closing regulatory gaps, increasing enforcement, and strengthening cooperation at home and abroad,â said Preeyaporn Suwannaked, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Thailand.The report, titled Turning the Tide: A Look Into the European Union-to-Southeast Asia Waste Trafficking Wave, is a flagship within a series of publications that explore corruption, cybercrime, and legal loopholes as causes behind the problem. It is part of a comprehensive project (Unwaste) to address waste trafficking and its impact on the global circular economy.âThe environmental impacts of waste trafficking are contributing to the pollution crisis and need to be addressed. To do this, we must pursue good environmental governance and robust environmental rule of law. Projects such as Unwasteare critical in tackling issues through a multi-sector, multi-disciplinary approach. UNEP is proud to be part of the project, which advances solutions aimed at ensuring a healthy planet and a sustainable future,â said Patricia Kameri-Mbote, Director of the Law Division in UNEP.Key types of waste trafficked include plastic, e-waste, metal, and paper, with mixed materials, textiles, vehicle parts, industrial, and medical waste also frequently encountered. Upon arrival at destination, take-back or repatriation procedures are a major challenge as shipments often cannot be traced to their countries of origin. Abandoned or unclaimed containers at ports exacerbate the issue, further complicating enforcement and investigation efforts. As a result, most waste ends up in illegal landfills, the ocean, or burnt in the open. Often, penalties are disproportionately low compared to the potential environmental and health damage inflicted on destination countries. The research also shows a concerning lack of available data to assess the full scale of waste trafficking and identify the connections between criminal actors involved.The report, which has been financed by the European Union, stresses the urgent need for further regulatory reforms, enhanced international cooperation, capacity development, research, and data along with stricter enforcement measures to combat waste trafficking effectively.Click here to access the report series.
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Publication
08 April 2024
Turning the Tide: A Look Into the European Union-to-Southeast Asia Waste Trafficking Wave
This report, titled Turning the Tide: A Look Into the European Union-to-Southeast Asia Waste Trafficking Wave, is a flagship within a series of publications that explore corruption, cybercrime, and legal loopholes as causes behind the problem. It is part of a comprehensive project (Unwaste) to address waste trafficking and its impact on the global circular economy.Produced by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the new research, which has been financed by the European Union, stresses the urgent need for further regulatory reforms, enhanced international cooperation, capacity development, research, and data along with stricter enforcement measures to combat waste trafficking effectively.Southeast Asia remains a key destination for illicit waste shipments, the report reveals, with Europe, North America, and Asia identified as primary regions of origin. Common tactics include false declarations, a lack of or incorrect notifications to circumvent regulations and avoid controls, along with missing or inadequate licenses or documents.Data collected from four Southeast Asian countries, three major European Union ports, and international enforcement operations highlight efforts in tackling illegal waste shipments by both origin and destination countries. However, despite regulatory and enforcement measures implemented by countries in which illegal waste ends up â such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Viet Nam â waste trafficking continues to pose a major challenge in the region.Learn why waste trafficking is a growing concern in the publication. Click here to access the report, Web of Waste Investigating the Risk of Waste Crimes in Cyber-Space.
Click here to access the main report, Legal Frameworks to Address Waste Trafficking in the ASEAN region â Review and Gap Analysis.
Click here to access the main report, Cash in the Trash The Role of Corruption, Organized Crime and Money Laundering in Waste Trafficking.
Click here to learn more about the Unwaste project.
Click here to access the main report, Legal Frameworks to Address Waste Trafficking in the ASEAN region â Review and Gap Analysis.
Click here to access the main report, Cash in the Trash The Role of Corruption, Organized Crime and Money Laundering in Waste Trafficking.
Click here to learn more about the Unwaste project.
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Story
30 October 2024
Valuing teachersâ voices: Educators from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Viet Nam reflect on why their voices matterâin and out of the classroom
Globally, teacher shortages have contributed to a learning crisis in which half of all students now in school in the Asia-Pacific are expected to leave without basic literacy and numeracy skills. In low and middle-income countries, 70% of 10-year-olds cannot read or understand a simple text. âAt a time when the world is struggling to recruit and retain teachers, it is critical than we listen to the voices of those on the front lines,â says Soohyun Kim, Regional Director of UNESCO Bangkok. âIf we are serious about addressing the learning crisis in our region and globally, teachersâ expertise should help guide educational reform from the ground up,â Kim added. To mark World Teachers Day on 5 October, the UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok, in collaboration with the UNESCO Offices in Phnom Penh and Hanoi, spoke with teachers from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Viet Nam about their unique perspectives on education, studentsâ needs, and policy. The excerpts below, edited for length and clarity, were originally published on UNESCO Bangkokâs social media platforms.
âTeachersâ insights can shape a more inclusive curriculum.â
âTeachers play a crucial role in the education system. They are constantly learning about new subjects, educational technologies, and pedagogical strategies to meet the needs of students and keep pace with the rapidly evolving world.
In a country like Cambodia, where students come from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, teachersâ insights are invaluable in shaping a more inclusive and adaptable curriculum that aligns with studentsâ real-world needs. Their voices ensure that educational reforms are not just top-down initiatives but collaborative efforts that enhance the overall quality of education.ââ Chhav Chheng Y, teacher, Svay Teab Primary School, Cambodia
âTeachers can speak about the realities of the education system.â
'The title, âteacherâ is one I wear with pride. I feel proud when my students achieve their learning goals efficiently and complete each level of education. When learning outcomes improve, students, parents, and my colleagues are all smiles.But being a teacher also comes with challenges. Some students struggle to achieve the objectives of the lesson. Some are from ethnic minority backgrounds and speak Lao as their second language. Some parents do not have time to be involved with homework. And some parents do not encourage their children to go to school.Teachers can speak about the realities of the education system. They know the circumstances of the learners and how to adapt the national curriculum to local contexts. Amplifying teachers' voices will help reduce dropout rates and ensure parents better understand the importance of their children staying in school.ââ Saykham Padichit, teacher educator, Luangnamtha Teacher Training College, Lao PDR
âTeachers see first-hand how children develop and learn.â
âMost of the children I teach are from ethnic minority backgrounds and come from very poor communities. The most challenging thing about being a teacher is seeing children in an environment that compromises their future well-being. I would not have pride in my profession if I stood by and did nothing for them. I am determined to impart as much knowledge as I can, so the children can reach a level of learning appropriate for their age.
Teachersâ voices are important. They can improve educational policies because teachers see first-hand how children develop and learn, and devise strategies for addressing the challenges they face. For example, most of the children in my classes struggled to write Thai consonants correctly. So, I coached each child one-on-one. My method may be a bit time consuming, but if it allows children to learn well, Iâm willing to invest the time. The most rewarding thing about being a teacher is that what we teach helps children develop a wide range of skills and valuesâreading, writing, the cultivation of discipline, volunteerism, humility, and accountability.ââ Janwan Withuchamnan, kindergarten teacher, Ban Pa Rai School, Thailand
âAs a teacher, I serve as an example for my students.â
âAs a teacher, I feel the need to serve as an example for students. I need to always improve myself and learn new things that are suitable for educating students. Regarding policy, I think there is a need for teacher training and development opportunities to improve our professional and pedagogical skills. Also, school counsellors need more training to attune them to the age-specific psychology of students today.â
â LĂŞ Tháť Háťng Nhan, teacher and school counsellor, Loan Máťš Secondary School, Viet Nam
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âTeachersâ insights can shape a more inclusive curriculum.â
âTeachers play a crucial role in the education system. They are constantly learning about new subjects, educational technologies, and pedagogical strategies to meet the needs of students and keep pace with the rapidly evolving world.
In a country like Cambodia, where students come from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, teachersâ insights are invaluable in shaping a more inclusive and adaptable curriculum that aligns with studentsâ real-world needs. Their voices ensure that educational reforms are not just top-down initiatives but collaborative efforts that enhance the overall quality of education.ââ Chhav Chheng Y, teacher, Svay Teab Primary School, Cambodia
âTeachers can speak about the realities of the education system.â
'The title, âteacherâ is one I wear with pride. I feel proud when my students achieve their learning goals efficiently and complete each level of education. When learning outcomes improve, students, parents, and my colleagues are all smiles.But being a teacher also comes with challenges. Some students struggle to achieve the objectives of the lesson. Some are from ethnic minority backgrounds and speak Lao as their second language. Some parents do not have time to be involved with homework. And some parents do not encourage their children to go to school.Teachers can speak about the realities of the education system. They know the circumstances of the learners and how to adapt the national curriculum to local contexts. Amplifying teachers' voices will help reduce dropout rates and ensure parents better understand the importance of their children staying in school.ââ Saykham Padichit, teacher educator, Luangnamtha Teacher Training College, Lao PDR
âTeachers see first-hand how children develop and learn.â
âMost of the children I teach are from ethnic minority backgrounds and come from very poor communities. The most challenging thing about being a teacher is seeing children in an environment that compromises their future well-being. I would not have pride in my profession if I stood by and did nothing for them. I am determined to impart as much knowledge as I can, so the children can reach a level of learning appropriate for their age.
Teachersâ voices are important. They can improve educational policies because teachers see first-hand how children develop and learn, and devise strategies for addressing the challenges they face. For example, most of the children in my classes struggled to write Thai consonants correctly. So, I coached each child one-on-one. My method may be a bit time consuming, but if it allows children to learn well, Iâm willing to invest the time. The most rewarding thing about being a teacher is that what we teach helps children develop a wide range of skills and valuesâreading, writing, the cultivation of discipline, volunteerism, humility, and accountability.ââ Janwan Withuchamnan, kindergarten teacher, Ban Pa Rai School, Thailand
âAs a teacher, I serve as an example for my students.â
âAs a teacher, I feel the need to serve as an example for students. I need to always improve myself and learn new things that are suitable for educating students. Regarding policy, I think there is a need for teacher training and development opportunities to improve our professional and pedagogical skills. Also, school counsellors need more training to attune them to the age-specific psychology of students today.â
â LĂŞ Tháť Háťng Nhan, teacher and school counsellor, Loan Máťš Secondary School, Viet Nam
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Story
30 October 2024
UNDP Presents Climate Adaptation, Risk Projection, and Investment Solutions for Thailandâs Gulf Amid Climate Hazards
Bangkok, 21 October 2024 â With the recent flooding situation in Thailand underscoring the severe impact of extreme weather on peopleâs livelihoods, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with Thailandâs Department of Climate Change and Environment (DCCE) and the Department of Coastal and Marine Resources (DMCR), presents three key solutions to strengthen Thailand's capacity to adapt to climate change and increase its climate resilience: a climate-risk projection platform, climate adaptation measures, and financing strategies for climate change adaptation in marine and coastal areas. These long-term solutions range from policy to digital and financial approaches. They have been developed and achieved through the project âIncreasing Resilience to Climate Change Impacts in Marine and Coastal Areas along the Gulf of Thailand,â funded by the Green Climate Fund. The project focuses on enhancing planning and capacity, mainstreaming climate adaptation, and creating strategies for future financing.Launched in August 2020, this four-year initiative is working to integrate climate change adaptation into planning and budgeting processes for Thailandâs marine and coastal areas. Four provincesâRayong, Phetchaburi, Surat Thani, and Songkhlaâwere prioritized to develop sustainable solutions, particularly for the vulnerable Gulf of Thailand region, aimed at addressing Thailandâs climate vulnerability. Thailand ranks 9th globally among countries most affected by extreme weather events from 2001 to 2020.
âThe rise in extreme weather events globally, including in Thailand, highlights the pressing need for countries to enhance their ability to adapt to climate challenges like floods, storms, and heatwaves, which are growing more unpredictable.At UNDP, we integrate climate, nature, and development, offering support to Thailand at both policy and community levels. Our efforts aim to align National Biodiversity Strategies (NBSAPs) with Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), focusing on sustainable land management, ecosystem restorationâparticularly marine ecosystemsâand solutions that serve both people and the planet.â said Irina Goryunova, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative to Thailand.
"I am very pleased to be a part of the development of this project in collaboration with UNDP and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, supported by the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This project is extremely important in light of the various disasters we face.What we design will help build resilience to prepare for future disasters that may occur, such as rising global temperatures, sudden flooding, and the loss of marine ecosystems, including coral bleaching. Therefore, it is crucial that we seek new balanced approaches for a sustainable ecosystem. The success of this initiative relies on partnerships with all sectors: government, private sector, and the public," said Dr. Pirun Sayasithpanit, Director-General of the Department of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.Thailandâs coastal areas are among the most affected. According to studies, significant damage has been observed in approximately 74.8 square kilometers of coral reefs, 150 square kilometers of seagrass, and 2,502 square kilometers of mangroves. Thirty-nine coral bleaching hotspots have been identified in the Gulf of Thailand, with the most severely impacted areas located in Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces. Additionally, coastal erosion, exacerbated by the removal of beach and dune sediments, affects around 230 kilometers of Thailandâs coastline, particularly in the upper Gulf region.The three key solutions proposed by the project aim to contribute to Thailandâs long-term climate resilience:To support better decision-making and design climate-responsive policies, the project offers a climate-risk projection platform called the Thailand Adaptation Platform, available on the DCCE website. This platform provides access to data on climate risk projections, vulnerability assessments, and a training manual on climate adaptation planning, equipping decision-makers at the sub-national level with the knowledge needed for informed planning and sustainable solutions.To enable marine and coastal areas to adapt to climate impacts, the project proposes climate adaptation measures that have been introduced, developed, and tested in the four pilot provinces mentioned above, with plans to scale them up to other coastal areas. These measures focus on nature-based solutions, including the creation of marine resource banks, the construction of sand fences to combat shoreline erosion, and the planting of coastal forests to protect vulnerable areas.To ensure sufficient investments in climate adaptation, particularly in marine and coastal areas, the project presents two financing strategies aimed at enabling public-private collaboration, leading to funding initiatives that enhance resilience in coastal and marine areas.To ensure lasting impact, the project emphasizes a localization approach, fostering collaboration with local institutions, including academic institutions and sub-national government entities. In Songkhla, through meaningful engagement with local communities, Prince of Songkhla Universityâs Faculty of Fisheries has recognized the urgency of climate adaptation and is developing a new course on the topic, currently pending approval from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation. Meanwhile, Burapha University in Chonburi Province will invest further in grassroots innovative solutions for shellfish aquaculture.
The localization effort has also led to concrete outcomes in provincial planning. In Songkhla, the Marine and Coastal Resources Management Office 5 will integrate a climate adaptation plan into the province's overall strategy, potentially inspiring private-sector engagement in future initiatives. Similarly, the Nern-Pra Municipality in Rayong has already implemented a nature-based solutionâa sand fence to mitigate shore erosionâblending seamlessly into the natural landscape.The knowledge and capacity built through these efforts will continue to drive climate adaptation and resilience in Thailandâs marine and coastal regions. With the success of these pilot initiatives, there is growing potential to expand and replicate such efforts across other vulnerable provinces, ensuring that Thailand remains at the forefront of climate adaptation.Read the press release in Thai here.For further information and media enquiries, please contact: Karnklon Raktham, Head of Communications, UNDP in Thailandkarnklon.raktham@undp.org
âThe rise in extreme weather events globally, including in Thailand, highlights the pressing need for countries to enhance their ability to adapt to climate challenges like floods, storms, and heatwaves, which are growing more unpredictable.At UNDP, we integrate climate, nature, and development, offering support to Thailand at both policy and community levels. Our efforts aim to align National Biodiversity Strategies (NBSAPs) with Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), focusing on sustainable land management, ecosystem restorationâparticularly marine ecosystemsâand solutions that serve both people and the planet.â said Irina Goryunova, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative to Thailand.
"I am very pleased to be a part of the development of this project in collaboration with UNDP and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, supported by the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This project is extremely important in light of the various disasters we face.What we design will help build resilience to prepare for future disasters that may occur, such as rising global temperatures, sudden flooding, and the loss of marine ecosystems, including coral bleaching. Therefore, it is crucial that we seek new balanced approaches for a sustainable ecosystem. The success of this initiative relies on partnerships with all sectors: government, private sector, and the public," said Dr. Pirun Sayasithpanit, Director-General of the Department of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.Thailandâs coastal areas are among the most affected. According to studies, significant damage has been observed in approximately 74.8 square kilometers of coral reefs, 150 square kilometers of seagrass, and 2,502 square kilometers of mangroves. Thirty-nine coral bleaching hotspots have been identified in the Gulf of Thailand, with the most severely impacted areas located in Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces. Additionally, coastal erosion, exacerbated by the removal of beach and dune sediments, affects around 230 kilometers of Thailandâs coastline, particularly in the upper Gulf region.The three key solutions proposed by the project aim to contribute to Thailandâs long-term climate resilience:To support better decision-making and design climate-responsive policies, the project offers a climate-risk projection platform called the Thailand Adaptation Platform, available on the DCCE website. This platform provides access to data on climate risk projections, vulnerability assessments, and a training manual on climate adaptation planning, equipping decision-makers at the sub-national level with the knowledge needed for informed planning and sustainable solutions.To enable marine and coastal areas to adapt to climate impacts, the project proposes climate adaptation measures that have been introduced, developed, and tested in the four pilot provinces mentioned above, with plans to scale them up to other coastal areas. These measures focus on nature-based solutions, including the creation of marine resource banks, the construction of sand fences to combat shoreline erosion, and the planting of coastal forests to protect vulnerable areas.To ensure sufficient investments in climate adaptation, particularly in marine and coastal areas, the project presents two financing strategies aimed at enabling public-private collaboration, leading to funding initiatives that enhance resilience in coastal and marine areas.To ensure lasting impact, the project emphasizes a localization approach, fostering collaboration with local institutions, including academic institutions and sub-national government entities. In Songkhla, through meaningful engagement with local communities, Prince of Songkhla Universityâs Faculty of Fisheries has recognized the urgency of climate adaptation and is developing a new course on the topic, currently pending approval from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation. Meanwhile, Burapha University in Chonburi Province will invest further in grassroots innovative solutions for shellfish aquaculture.
The localization effort has also led to concrete outcomes in provincial planning. In Songkhla, the Marine and Coastal Resources Management Office 5 will integrate a climate adaptation plan into the province's overall strategy, potentially inspiring private-sector engagement in future initiatives. Similarly, the Nern-Pra Municipality in Rayong has already implemented a nature-based solutionâa sand fence to mitigate shore erosionâblending seamlessly into the natural landscape.The knowledge and capacity built through these efforts will continue to drive climate adaptation and resilience in Thailandâs marine and coastal regions. With the success of these pilot initiatives, there is growing potential to expand and replicate such efforts across other vulnerable provinces, ensuring that Thailand remains at the forefront of climate adaptation.Read the press release in Thai here.For further information and media enquiries, please contact: Karnklon Raktham, Head of Communications, UNDP in Thailandkarnklon.raktham@undp.org
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Story
21 October 2024
Beyond farming: First women-only visit from Myanmar to Thailand's highlands
Doi Inthanon (Thailand), 1 October 2024 Ěś Nang Kham Li stares at the new, bright green shrubâcreated with the bottom half of one plant and the top half of anotherâin admiration. She stretches out her arm, pulls out a pen from her hair, opens her notebook and starts to write, occasionally looking at the lady in front performing the plant-grafting magic.Nang Kham Li is part of a group of women farmers from Myanmar who have been learning about sustainable farming in the highlands of Thailand, with the support of the Royal Project Foundation and the UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC).But this first all-womenâs visit to Doi Inthanon is about more than just agriculture. It was designed to give these farmers the opportunity to witness firsthand the crucial role women can play in driving development, particularly in a country like Myanmar, where vulnerable farming communities cultivate illicit crops such as opium to survive.âNormally, [in Myanmar] women are expected to stay at home and take care of the kitchen and the family. But here in Thailand, in the highlands, every woman has a role. People in the community respect them,â said Nang San Hlaing. She is the leader of a women farmersâ community group in Shan State, Myanmar, where they have replaced opium with coffee with UNODC support.Not just a change, a transformationThe farmers visited by the group from Myanmar belong to the hilltribes of Doi (Mount) Inthanon in northern Thailand. These tribes successfully shifted from growing opium in the 1960s to creating their own sustainable ecosystem of opium-free fields today, serving as a model for the world.Behind this success lies the work of one of UNODCâs key partners in this field: The Royal Project Foundation. The Foundation, or RPF, boasts a 55-year-long track record of transforming highland poverty-stricken communities dependent on narcotic crops into models of sustainable growth and self-sufficiency.
A key concept of alternative development is not just to change but to fundamentally transform, aiming to elevate peopleâs quality of life beyond the simple substitution of one crop for another.Opium: 0, coffee: 1Kerd Panakamnerd is 77 years old. His parents, grandparents, and great grandparents grew opium, and so did he, his wife, and his children.âEveryone grew opium. My neighbours, my friends. In fact, I did not know anybody who didnât,â he said.
Panakamnerd himself taught his children how to cut the poppy they grew with a sharp knife and extract the resin liquid that would come out of it slowly, just like his father had taught him, and like his grandfather had taught his father. âGrowing poppy gives you a stable income, but you live in fear.â
Following a visit by his Majesty King Rama IX to the highlands in 1969, the Foundation started introducing other crops like strawberries, with the hope that farmers would slowly replace opium poppy with licit crops that grew well in cold temperatures.Panakamnerdâs family was cautious. âAt first, we grew strawberries in parallel to the poppy, because we could not trust that strawberries alone would give us a stable income.â Today, he and his family grow coffee.âMy children grow coffee, too, but perhaps their children will grow other cropsâwho knows? What I know for sure is that they will not grow poppy. We are here to live, and not to play hide-and-seek.â
Yet in Myanmar, many farmers still grow illicit drug crops. They are concentrated in poor, isolated areas where obtaining enough income from legal activities is difficult partly because of conflict, but mostly because of the conditions of the territory. With windy, dirt roads and no infrastructure, it is harder for these farmers to enter new markets. It is much easier for a farmer to swing on a backpack full of opium and take it down a dirt road on a bike to a drug trafficker than it is to
transport lettuce, for instance, which is much more easily damaged or spoiled by the time it reaches the supplier.Coffee, on the other hand, is different. It grows at high altitudes and provides a viable opportunity for farmers to generate income.Its resilience to these conditions make it an ideal option for UNODC alternative development programmes. UNODC has been assisting farming communities in Myanmar and Lao Peopleâs Democratic Republic on coffee cultivation, along with other crops, for over a decade. Beyond switching crops, these sustainable development efforts involve support in entrepreneurship, civil society engagement, environmental preservation and gender equality.
Becoming a self-sustainable communityBack in the highlands of Thailand, Nang Kham Li has finished jotting down her notes on grafting. She tucks her pen back into her braid and follows the group to the next phase of the training. âNow, you do it,â the Thai trainer says to her, handing her the plant.In Myanmarâs Shan State, the hope lies with women farmers like Nang Kham Li. UNODC has promoted the active participation of women leaders in value chains, where they hold various roles, including at the executive level. It has supported 385 women in remote communities across the country to form more than 30 groups focused on productive initiatives such as greenhouses and plant nurseries for coffee and other crops. This has led to a community-driven movement where women are actively involved in production, making business decisions and playing a key role in linking to new markets.âThe idea behind visits like these to Thailand are not just for the women farmers to gain technical knowledge,â says Jaime Eduardo PĂŠrez, UNODC alternative development expert, âbut to create a realistic image in their minds of a self-sustainable community in which many women have a leading role, and to show them that one day this can also be possible in Myanmar.âClick here to see more photos of the visit.Click here to learn more about UNODCâs work on alternative development.Click here to learn more about UNODCâs work in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
A key concept of alternative development is not just to change but to fundamentally transform, aiming to elevate peopleâs quality of life beyond the simple substitution of one crop for another.Opium: 0, coffee: 1Kerd Panakamnerd is 77 years old. His parents, grandparents, and great grandparents grew opium, and so did he, his wife, and his children.âEveryone grew opium. My neighbours, my friends. In fact, I did not know anybody who didnât,â he said.
Panakamnerd himself taught his children how to cut the poppy they grew with a sharp knife and extract the resin liquid that would come out of it slowly, just like his father had taught him, and like his grandfather had taught his father. âGrowing poppy gives you a stable income, but you live in fear.â
Following a visit by his Majesty King Rama IX to the highlands in 1969, the Foundation started introducing other crops like strawberries, with the hope that farmers would slowly replace opium poppy with licit crops that grew well in cold temperatures.Panakamnerdâs family was cautious. âAt first, we grew strawberries in parallel to the poppy, because we could not trust that strawberries alone would give us a stable income.â Today, he and his family grow coffee.âMy children grow coffee, too, but perhaps their children will grow other cropsâwho knows? What I know for sure is that they will not grow poppy. We are here to live, and not to play hide-and-seek.â
Yet in Myanmar, many farmers still grow illicit drug crops. They are concentrated in poor, isolated areas where obtaining enough income from legal activities is difficult partly because of conflict, but mostly because of the conditions of the territory. With windy, dirt roads and no infrastructure, it is harder for these farmers to enter new markets. It is much easier for a farmer to swing on a backpack full of opium and take it down a dirt road on a bike to a drug trafficker than it is to
transport lettuce, for instance, which is much more easily damaged or spoiled by the time it reaches the supplier.Coffee, on the other hand, is different. It grows at high altitudes and provides a viable opportunity for farmers to generate income.Its resilience to these conditions make it an ideal option for UNODC alternative development programmes. UNODC has been assisting farming communities in Myanmar and Lao Peopleâs Democratic Republic on coffee cultivation, along with other crops, for over a decade. Beyond switching crops, these sustainable development efforts involve support in entrepreneurship, civil society engagement, environmental preservation and gender equality.
Becoming a self-sustainable communityBack in the highlands of Thailand, Nang Kham Li has finished jotting down her notes on grafting. She tucks her pen back into her braid and follows the group to the next phase of the training. âNow, you do it,â the Thai trainer says to her, handing her the plant.In Myanmarâs Shan State, the hope lies with women farmers like Nang Kham Li. UNODC has promoted the active participation of women leaders in value chains, where they hold various roles, including at the executive level. It has supported 385 women in remote communities across the country to form more than 30 groups focused on productive initiatives such as greenhouses and plant nurseries for coffee and other crops. This has led to a community-driven movement where women are actively involved in production, making business decisions and playing a key role in linking to new markets.âThe idea behind visits like these to Thailand are not just for the women farmers to gain technical knowledge,â says Jaime Eduardo PĂŠrez, UNODC alternative development expert, âbut to create a realistic image in their minds of a self-sustainable community in which many women have a leading role, and to show them that one day this can also be possible in Myanmar.âClick here to see more photos of the visit.Click here to learn more about UNODCâs work on alternative development.Click here to learn more about UNODCâs work in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
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Story
09 October 2024
A milestone year for the Thai SDG micro-primer: Empowering youth for sustainable action
As we mark the first anniversary of the Thai SDG Micro-Primer, we reflect on a year of impactful progress, with over 6,800 learners engaged since its launch in October 2023. Developed by the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) in collaboration with the UN in Thailand, this initiative has empowered young people to take an active role in shaping a sustainable future. It underscores the power of learning, collaboration, and youth engagement in advancing the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The power of youth-led learningAt the heart of the Thai SDG Micro-Primer is a belief that todayâs youth are the catalysts of change. From its inception, the SDG Micro-Primer was developed with the active involvement of Thai students and young professionals, ensuring that the content resonates with their peers. The inclusion of youth voices in the narrativeâfeaturing a Thai university student as the narrator and a young Thai actress, Toey Jarinporn, in promotional videosâhighlights a commitment to youth empowerment and the role of education in advancing the SDGs.
Building momentum across universities mobilizing youth and academia
In collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI) and other partners, the UN Country Team in Thailand led workshops, introducing the SDG Micro-Primer to universities and youth organizations from across the nation. This broad engagement reflects our commitment to embedding sustainable development learning into everyday academic and community life, showcasing the impact of education as a transformative tool.
Reaching universities nationwide
Our efforts extended beyond Bangkok to universities such as Mae Fah Luang University in the North and Thaksin University in the South. These collaborations focus on supporting local sustainability goals while fostering a culture of SDG literacy within academic settings.
Youth-centric events
Events like "Young People: The Future of Sustainability," co-hosted with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during the visit of Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, Dr. Felipe Paullier, brought together youth representatives, university Model UN clubs, and young leaders for impactful discussions on sustainability. These gatherings provided a platform for young voices to be heard and amplified, contributing significantly to national conversations on sustainability. This also led to the establishment of a network of model UN clubs across 7 universities from around the country which have been an active platform to further promote the SDG Micro-Primer among other things.
Innovation in engagement
A key component of the success of the SDG Micro-Primer has been the integration of digital tools to engage youth. Through internships, young national personnel brought fresh perspectives to UN Thailandâs communications and advocacy efforts. One notable success was the creation of an Instagram filter aligned with the Micro-Primerâs themes, which achieved significant engagement during Thailandâs Sustainability Expo 2023. Over 5,000 people interacted with the âWhat SDGs Hero Are You?â filter, demonstrating how digital innovation can effectively engage youth in sustainability conversations.
Global and regional collaboration
The Thai SDG Micro-Primerâs impact has extended beyond national borders. It was presented at international platforms such as the Times Higher Educationâs Global Sustainable Development Congress and the curriculum of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities. These partnerships highlight the SDG Micro-Primer's global relevance and adaptability, proving that it can serve as a model for sustainable development learning across diverse regions.As we look to the future, discussions are ongoing with the Sustainable University Network (SUN) of Thailand to institutionalize the SDG Micro-Primer across universities nationwide. This collaboration promises to deepen the educational impact and further integrate sustainable practices into higher education.
Looking ahead: Empowering the next generation of SDG leaders
The Thai SDG Micro-Primer is more than an educational resourceâitâs a platform for youth to take ownership of sustainable development. It inspires action, fosters leadership, and equips young people with the tools they need to drive meaningful change. As UNSSC and UN in Thailand continue to lead in shaping educational innovations within the UN system and across a network of universities in Thailand, the SDG Micro-Primer serves as a model of how collaborative learning can pave the way for a sustainable global future.As we commemorate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to continuous learning, collaboration, and action. The journey of the Thai SDG Micro-Primer has shown that when we empower youth through learning, using engaging and innovative tools, we are investing in a sustainable future for all led by our future leaders. Together, through youth engagement, we will continue to advance the SDGs and inspire the next generation of leaders.The UN in Thailand will be participating in the Sustainability Expo 2024 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok from 27 September to 6 October 2024. If you're interested in learning more about our efforts to engage youth in sustainable development or our partnerships with universities and youth organizations focused on the SDGs in Thailand, feel free to reach out to us at RCO-TH@un.org.
-----------------------Written by Paulyn Duman and Marisa Panyachiva
Building momentum across universities mobilizing youth and academia
In collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI) and other partners, the UN Country Team in Thailand led workshops, introducing the SDG Micro-Primer to universities and youth organizations from across the nation. This broad engagement reflects our commitment to embedding sustainable development learning into everyday academic and community life, showcasing the impact of education as a transformative tool.
Reaching universities nationwide
Our efforts extended beyond Bangkok to universities such as Mae Fah Luang University in the North and Thaksin University in the South. These collaborations focus on supporting local sustainability goals while fostering a culture of SDG literacy within academic settings.
Youth-centric events
Events like "Young People: The Future of Sustainability," co-hosted with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during the visit of Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, Dr. Felipe Paullier, brought together youth representatives, university Model UN clubs, and young leaders for impactful discussions on sustainability. These gatherings provided a platform for young voices to be heard and amplified, contributing significantly to national conversations on sustainability. This also led to the establishment of a network of model UN clubs across 7 universities from around the country which have been an active platform to further promote the SDG Micro-Primer among other things.
Innovation in engagement
A key component of the success of the SDG Micro-Primer has been the integration of digital tools to engage youth. Through internships, young national personnel brought fresh perspectives to UN Thailandâs communications and advocacy efforts. One notable success was the creation of an Instagram filter aligned with the Micro-Primerâs themes, which achieved significant engagement during Thailandâs Sustainability Expo 2023. Over 5,000 people interacted with the âWhat SDGs Hero Are You?â filter, demonstrating how digital innovation can effectively engage youth in sustainability conversations.
Global and regional collaboration
The Thai SDG Micro-Primerâs impact has extended beyond national borders. It was presented at international platforms such as the Times Higher Educationâs Global Sustainable Development Congress and the curriculum of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities. These partnerships highlight the SDG Micro-Primer's global relevance and adaptability, proving that it can serve as a model for sustainable development learning across diverse regions.As we look to the future, discussions are ongoing with the Sustainable University Network (SUN) of Thailand to institutionalize the SDG Micro-Primer across universities nationwide. This collaboration promises to deepen the educational impact and further integrate sustainable practices into higher education.
Looking ahead: Empowering the next generation of SDG leaders
The Thai SDG Micro-Primer is more than an educational resourceâitâs a platform for youth to take ownership of sustainable development. It inspires action, fosters leadership, and equips young people with the tools they need to drive meaningful change. As UNSSC and UN in Thailand continue to lead in shaping educational innovations within the UN system and across a network of universities in Thailand, the SDG Micro-Primer serves as a model of how collaborative learning can pave the way for a sustainable global future.As we commemorate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to continuous learning, collaboration, and action. The journey of the Thai SDG Micro-Primer has shown that when we empower youth through learning, using engaging and innovative tools, we are investing in a sustainable future for all led by our future leaders. Together, through youth engagement, we will continue to advance the SDGs and inspire the next generation of leaders.The UN in Thailand will be participating in the Sustainability Expo 2024 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok from 27 September to 6 October 2024. If you're interested in learning more about our efforts to engage youth in sustainable development or our partnerships with universities and youth organizations focused on the SDGs in Thailand, feel free to reach out to us at RCO-TH@un.org.
-----------------------Written by Paulyn Duman and Marisa Panyachiva
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Story
13 October 2024
UNHCR welcomes Thailandâs full adoption of international convention to protect child rights
UNHCR welcomes Thailandâs full adoption of international convention to protect child rightsUNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, welcomes the Royal Thai Governmentâs decision to withdraw its reservation to Article 22 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) which relates to the rights of refugee children.The withdrawal fulfils a key commitment Thailand made at last yearâs Global Refugee Forum in Geneva. It also strongly reaffirms that refugee children must be recognized as deserving of the same rights to access education, healthcare, legal protection, family reunification and other essential services as any other child under the CRC.UNHCR notes that while this move is commendable, its implementation will be key. Thailandâs existing legal frameworks, including the 2019 Memorandum of Understanding on alternatives to detention, the countryâs education for all policy, and its National Screening Mechanism, which established a formal process for recognizing and protecting asylum-seekers, were all designed to offer protection to refugees. They reflect Thailandâs commitment to upholding refugeesâ rights and well-being despite not being a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention.By strengthening legal protection and expanding access to essential services, Thailand is moving toward a more inclusive environment for refugee children, aligned with international standards. UNHCR hopes it will bring us closer to the day when no refugee children will be detained in Thailand.This important development comes at a time when the world faces unprecedented levels of forced displacement, with children disproportionately affected.Thailand currently hosts over 81,000 refugees from Myanmar across nine temporary shelters along the Thai-Myanmar border, and more than 5,500 refugees and asylum-seekers from over 40 countries who live outside the temporary shelters.
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Press Release
09 October 2024
UNICEF and UNHCR urge urgent action to end childhood statelessness
BANGKOK, 7 October 2024 - On this yearâs International Birth Registration Day, the United Nations Childrenâs Fund (UNICEF) and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, are jointly calling for increased awareness of the importance of birth registration. This registration is the first legal recognition of a child and the foundation for securing every person's lifelong right to a legal identity.Thailand has one of the worldâs largest stateless populations. As of June 2024, data from the Ministry of Interior confirms there are over 592,340 people registered as stateless in the country, with approximately 169,241 being children. Birth registration is the first step towards a legal identity, and the surest pathway towards nationality and citizenship. Without registration a child may become stateless, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. In Thailand, birth registration alone does not guarantee a child Thai nationality unless they meet the eligibility criteria under Thai law. However, birth registration is crucial as it records essential information, such as the parentsâ nationality, which is necessary for obtaining nationality. "Birth registration isn't just a formality, it's the key which unlocks a child's right to a legal identity and other rights such as education, healthcare and protection. said Kyungsun Kim, UNICEF Representative for Thailand. "Without a birth certificate, children are invisible to the authorities, can become stateless, and may be deprived of further fundamental rights. Their physical and mental health will be at risk, and they will be unable to fully contribute to their families, communities and the country as a whole. Ending statelessness will enormously benefit children and Thailand, which is why UNICEF will continue to work with the Government and partners such as the UNHCR towards this crucial goal."Under Thai law, every child born in Thailand is entitled to be registered at birth and receive a birth certificate, regardless of their parents' status. However, many children, particularly those from ethnic groups in remote areas, remain unregistered due to a lack of awareness or resources. In April, the Royal Thai Government reaffirmed its commitment to addressing these challenges by formally joining the Global Alliance to End Statelessness, a coalition that will be launched on 14 October in Geneva.In recent years, Thailand has made considerable reforms to its nationality and civil registration laws, creating a legislative framework that offers pathways for stateless individuals to acquire nationality. However, progress in translating policy into practice, especially at the local level, remains limited and slow with only a small number of stateless people successfully obtaining a nationality or permanent residency.âGovernments hold the power to enact legal and policy reforms that can help stateless people on their territory acquire citizenships,â said Tammi Sharpe, UNHCR Representative in Thailand âUNHCR applauds the steps taken by the Royal Thai Government to address statelessness and encourages the Government to remain focused on the issues in order to eradicate statelessness in Thailand through robust civil registration.âA UNHCR study conducted in 2021 highlighted key challenges in ending childhood statelessness around the world. The study, Revision of Nationality Procedures in Thailand: Bottlenecks Analysis and Recommendations, found that complex procedures, lack of awareness among parents and officials, limited resource at local level, geographical barriers and negative attitudes among officials towards stateless people are obstacles in addressing statelessness.UNICEF and UNHCR are working closely with the Royal Thai Government to raise awareness and facilitate birth registration, all with the goal of accelerating progress towards ending childhood statelessness.As part of these efforts UNICEF and UNHCR are launching a video series featuring children who were born stateless in Thailand, some of whom have since gained a legal identity and some of whom are still struggling to obtain this right Their stories will be featured on our social media platforms throughout October and November.For more information, please visit https://www.unicef.org/thailand/endstatelessness or
https://www.unhcr.org/th/
https://www.unhcr.org/th/
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Press Release
09 October 2024
FAO Asia-Pacific calls for urgent action to protect âRight to Foodsâ
Access to diverse, nutritious, and affordable food is increasingly under threat, with 733 million people globally facing hunger and malnutrition. In 2022, approximately 23 percent of the Asia-Pacific population faced food insecurity, which, along with high rates of malnutrition, adversely impacts proper growth in children.This yearâs World Food Day theme, âRight to Foodsâ for a Better Life and a Better Future, underscores the importance of the accessibility and affordability of a healthy diet as well as the long-term environmental health that sustains food production. The rising rates of malnutrition are affecting all socio-economic groups, with global obesity rates projected to increase from 14 percent in 2020 to 24 percent by 2035.The Asia-Pacific region plays a vital role in global agrifood systems, employing 793 million of the 1.2 billion people employed in the agricultural sector globally, and significantly contributing to feeding a global population of 8 billion. Despite this, more than one-third of the global population, approximately 2.8 billion cannot afford a healthy diet, with 1.66 billion facing this challenge in Asia alone.The note of caution was emphasized during the regional observance, convened today in Bangkok, by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).World Food Day observance: honoring young leadersHer Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand, FAO Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific, presided over the regional World Food Day ceremony. Her Royal Highness emphasized that âfood must be produced sustainably to ensure communities have access to nutritious food, even in times of crisis. Ultimately, the nutritious and diverse food needs to reach peopleâs plate; thus, we must ensure that it is available at affordable prices."The event celebrated innovation, recognizing five remarkable young leaders from Thailand, Indonesia, Samoa, Nepal, and Papua New Guinea for their contributions to strengthening agrifood systems and sustainability in the region. Her Royal Highness presented them with awards to acknowledge their innovative initiatives. While acknowledging the contributions of the young innovators, Jong-Jin Kim the Assistant Director-General and FAO Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific stated, âTechnology and Innovation provide us with new solutions to the complex problems that we face today in our agrifood systemsâ.Certificates were also awarded to winners of the regional photo contest on food security and nutrition from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Papua New Guinea, and Mongolia, part of FAO's "Four Betters" initiativeâbetter production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life â leaving no one behind.Collective action: a unified approach to food security FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu has highlighted that âThe right to foods will not in itself fill stomachs or put more diverse diets on plates. But it does help frame our collective aspirations for the kind of just and equitable world we want to live in. It creates concrete obligations for governments and key partners to fulfil, and it should encourage all of us to do our part to ensure it is realized.âFAO plays a key role in addressing the complex challenge of strengthening agrifood systems. Its State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report, produced with UN agencies, provides crucial updates on food security, nutrition, and the affordability of healthy diets. In addition, FAO has partnered with Member Countries to develop dietary guidelines that inform policies on food, health, and agriculture, and to promote nutrition education.FAOâs Kim emphasized that "the gap between the right to food and reality can only be bridged by action. We must act now to strengthen the right to foods across the Asia-Pacific."Governments are urged to incentivize the production and sale of nutritious foods, ensuring access to healthy diets for all, especially the most vulnerable. Consumer organizations must also advocate for the rights of consumers in negotiations with the food industry and governments.âThe cost of neglecting the right to food is immense," said Kim. "If we are committed to leaving no one behind, action cannot wait. We must transform our agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, while respecting traditional food cultures and personal preferences."The actions and investments of today will shape our future, and the discussions and partnerships will continue as FAO approaches its International Soil and Water Forum 2024, co-organized with the Royal Thai Government in December. This forum will sustain the momentum of global and regional efforts, driving forward urgent actions needed to protect our natural resources and secure a more resilient agrifood system for future generations.More on this topicWorld Food Day 2024
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Press Release
23 September 2024
United Nations adopts ground-breaking Pact for the Future to transform global governance
New York, 22 September 2024 â World leaders today adopted a Pact for the Future that includes a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations. This Pact is the culmination of an inclusive, years-long process to adapt international cooperation to the realities of today and the challenges of tomorrow. The most wide-ranging international agreement in many years, covering entirely new areas as well as issues on which agreement has not been possible in decades, the Pact aims above all to ensure that international institutions can deliver in the face of a world that has changed dramatically since they were created. As the Secretary-General has said, âwe cannot create a future fit for our grandchildren with a system built by our grandparents.â
Overall, the agreement of the Pact is a strong statement of countriesâ commitment to the United Nations, the international system and international law. Leaders set out a clear vision of an international system that can deliver on its promises, is more representative of todayâs world and draws on the energy and expertise of governments, civil society and other key partners.
âThe Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact, and the Declaration on Future Generations open the door to new opportunities and untapped possibilities,â said the Secretary-General during his remarks at the opening of the Summit of the Future. The President of the General Assembly noted that the Pact would âlay the foundations for a sustainable, just, and peaceful global order â for all peoples and nations.â
The Pact covers a broad range of issues including peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, digital cooperation, human rights, gender, youth and future generations, and the transformation of global governance. Key deliverables in the Pact include:
In the area of peace and securityThe most progressive and concrete commitment to Security Council reform since the 1960s, with plans to improve the effectiveness and representativeness of the Council, including by redressing the historical under-representation of Africa as a priority.The first multilateral recommitment to nuclear disarmament in more than a decade, with a clear commitment to the goal of totally eliminating nuclear weapons.Agreement to strengthen international frameworks that govern outer space, including a clear commitment to prevent an arms race in outer space and the need to ensure all countries can benefit from the safe and sustainable exploration of outer space.Steps to avoid the weaponization and misuse of new technologies, such as lethal autonomous weapons, and affirmation that the laws of war should apply to many of these new technologies.
On sustainable development, climate and financing for developmentThe entire Pact is designed to turbo-charge implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.The most detailed agreement ever at the United Nations on the need for reform of the international financial architecture so that it better represents and serves developing countries, including:Giving developing countries a greater say in how decisions are taken at international financial institutions;Mobilizing more financing from multilateral development banks to help developing countries meet their development needs;Reviewing the sovereign debt architecture to ensure that developing countries can borrow sustainably to invest in their future, with the IMF, UN, G20 and other key players working together;Strengthening the global financial safety net to protect the poorest in the event of financial and economic shocks, through concrete actions by the IMF and Member States;and accelerating measures to address the challenge of climate change, including through delivering more finance to help countries adapt to climate change and invest in renewable energy. Improving how we measure human progress, going beyond GDP to capturing human and planetary wellbeing and sustainability.A commitment to consider ways to introduce a global minimum level of taxation on high-net-worth individuals.On climate change, confirmation of the need to keep global temperature rise to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels and to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
On digital cooperationThe Global Digital Compact, annexed to the Pact, is the first comprehensive global framework for digital cooperation and AI governance.At the heart of the Compact is a commitment to design, use and govern technology for the benefit of all. This includes commitments by world leaders to:Connect all people, schools and hospitals to the Internet;Anchor digital cooperation in human rights and international law;Make the online space safe for all, especially children, through actions by governments, tech companies and social media;Govern Artificial Intelligence, with a roadmap that includes an International Scientific Panel and a Global Policy Dialogue on AI;Make data more open and accessible, with agreements on open-source data, models, and standards;This is also the first global commitment to data governance, placing it on the UN agenda and requiring countries to take concrete actions by 2030.
Youth and future generationsThe first ever Declaration on Future Generations, with concrete steps to take account of future generations in our decision-making, including a possible envoy for future generations.A commitment to more meaningful opportunities for young people to participate in the decisions that shape their lives, especially at the global level.
Human rights and genderA strengthening of our work on human rights, gender equality and the empowerment of women.A clear call on the need to protect human rights defenders.Strong signals on the importance of engagement of other stakeholders in global governance, including local and regional governments, civil society, private sector and others.
There are provisions across the Pact and its annexes for follow-up action, to ensure that the commitments made are implemented.
Summit Process
The Summit process and the Pact have been deeply enriched by the contributions of millions of voices and thousands of stakeholders from around the world.
The Summit brought together over 4000 individuals from Heads of State and Government, observers, IGOs, UN System, civil society and non-governmental organizations. In a broader push to increase the engagement of diverse actors, the formal Summit was preceded by the Action Days from 20-21 September, which attracted more than 7,000 individuals representing all segments of society. The Action Days featured strong commitments to action by all stakeholders, as well as pledges of USD 1.05 billion to advance digital inclusion.###
For more information: https://www.un.org/en/summit-of-the-future
Media contacts:
Francyne Harrigan, United Nations Department of Global Communications | harriganf@un.org
Stefania Piffanelli, Executive Office of the Secretary-General, United Nations | piffanelli@un.org
Jackquelyn Kay Topacio, Executive Office of the Secretary-General, United Nations | jackquelyn.topacio@un.org
Overall, the agreement of the Pact is a strong statement of countriesâ commitment to the United Nations, the international system and international law. Leaders set out a clear vision of an international system that can deliver on its promises, is more representative of todayâs world and draws on the energy and expertise of governments, civil society and other key partners.
âThe Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact, and the Declaration on Future Generations open the door to new opportunities and untapped possibilities,â said the Secretary-General during his remarks at the opening of the Summit of the Future. The President of the General Assembly noted that the Pact would âlay the foundations for a sustainable, just, and peaceful global order â for all peoples and nations.â
The Pact covers a broad range of issues including peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, digital cooperation, human rights, gender, youth and future generations, and the transformation of global governance. Key deliverables in the Pact include:
In the area of peace and securityThe most progressive and concrete commitment to Security Council reform since the 1960s, with plans to improve the effectiveness and representativeness of the Council, including by redressing the historical under-representation of Africa as a priority.The first multilateral recommitment to nuclear disarmament in more than a decade, with a clear commitment to the goal of totally eliminating nuclear weapons.Agreement to strengthen international frameworks that govern outer space, including a clear commitment to prevent an arms race in outer space and the need to ensure all countries can benefit from the safe and sustainable exploration of outer space.Steps to avoid the weaponization and misuse of new technologies, such as lethal autonomous weapons, and affirmation that the laws of war should apply to many of these new technologies.
On sustainable development, climate and financing for developmentThe entire Pact is designed to turbo-charge implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.The most detailed agreement ever at the United Nations on the need for reform of the international financial architecture so that it better represents and serves developing countries, including:Giving developing countries a greater say in how decisions are taken at international financial institutions;Mobilizing more financing from multilateral development banks to help developing countries meet their development needs;Reviewing the sovereign debt architecture to ensure that developing countries can borrow sustainably to invest in their future, with the IMF, UN, G20 and other key players working together;Strengthening the global financial safety net to protect the poorest in the event of financial and economic shocks, through concrete actions by the IMF and Member States;and accelerating measures to address the challenge of climate change, including through delivering more finance to help countries adapt to climate change and invest in renewable energy. Improving how we measure human progress, going beyond GDP to capturing human and planetary wellbeing and sustainability.A commitment to consider ways to introduce a global minimum level of taxation on high-net-worth individuals.On climate change, confirmation of the need to keep global temperature rise to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels and to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
On digital cooperationThe Global Digital Compact, annexed to the Pact, is the first comprehensive global framework for digital cooperation and AI governance.At the heart of the Compact is a commitment to design, use and govern technology for the benefit of all. This includes commitments by world leaders to:Connect all people, schools and hospitals to the Internet;Anchor digital cooperation in human rights and international law;Make the online space safe for all, especially children, through actions by governments, tech companies and social media;Govern Artificial Intelligence, with a roadmap that includes an International Scientific Panel and a Global Policy Dialogue on AI;Make data more open and accessible, with agreements on open-source data, models, and standards;This is also the first global commitment to data governance, placing it on the UN agenda and requiring countries to take concrete actions by 2030.
Youth and future generationsThe first ever Declaration on Future Generations, with concrete steps to take account of future generations in our decision-making, including a possible envoy for future generations.A commitment to more meaningful opportunities for young people to participate in the decisions that shape their lives, especially at the global level.
Human rights and genderA strengthening of our work on human rights, gender equality and the empowerment of women.A clear call on the need to protect human rights defenders.Strong signals on the importance of engagement of other stakeholders in global governance, including local and regional governments, civil society, private sector and others.
There are provisions across the Pact and its annexes for follow-up action, to ensure that the commitments made are implemented.
Summit Process
The Summit process and the Pact have been deeply enriched by the contributions of millions of voices and thousands of stakeholders from around the world.
The Summit brought together over 4000 individuals from Heads of State and Government, observers, IGOs, UN System, civil society and non-governmental organizations. In a broader push to increase the engagement of diverse actors, the formal Summit was preceded by the Action Days from 20-21 September, which attracted more than 7,000 individuals representing all segments of society. The Action Days featured strong commitments to action by all stakeholders, as well as pledges of USD 1.05 billion to advance digital inclusion.###
For more information: https://www.un.org/en/summit-of-the-future
Media contacts:
Francyne Harrigan, United Nations Department of Global Communications | harriganf@un.org
Stefania Piffanelli, Executive Office of the Secretary-General, United Nations | piffanelli@un.org
Jackquelyn Kay Topacio, Executive Office of the Secretary-General, United Nations | jackquelyn.topacio@un.org
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Press Release
08 September 2024
UN Human Rights Office welcomes Thailandâs withdrawal of the reservation on Article 22 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child
âThailandâs decision to withdraw its reservation to this article is a significant, positive step towards aligning the countryâs laws and policies with international human rights and refugee law standards to protect the rights of all children on the move no matter who they are or where they are from,â said Cynthia Veliko, Representative of the UN Human Rights Office for South-East Asia.The decision of the Thai Cabinet to withdraw Thailandâs reservation to Article 22 came into effect on 30 August 2024. Article 22 of the CRC establishes the rights of refugee and asylum-seeking children to protection, humanitarian assistance, and access to support and other services equal to that of children who are nationals, as set out in the Convention and other international human rights instruments to which Thailand is a State Party.The withdrawal of the reservation on the CRC can further enable the Government of Thailand to ensure that all children are protected under the recently introduced National Screening Mechanism (NSM), effective on 22 September 2023, which grants the status of âprotected personâ to those who enter or stay in Thailand but are unable or unwilling to return to their country of origin for fear of persecution for valid reasons.However, children without legal status in Thailand can still be subjected to immigration detention, despite the Governmentâs issuance of a Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of Measures and Approaches for Alternatives to the Detention of Children in Immigration Detention Centres (MOU-ATD) in 2019.In its expert guidance, the Committee on the Rights of the Child has stated unequivocally that every child, at all times, has a fundamental right to liberty and freedom from immigration detention.âI urge the Government of Thailand to now focus on ending child immigration detention and implementing human rights-based alternatives to detention. Children on the move are children first and foremost and detention because of their or their parentsâ migration status is never in their best interests. As a consequence, human rights-based alternatives to detention should be provided to all children without discrimination as to their national origin, mode of travel or port of entry or any other considerations,â Veliko said.The UN Human Rights Office for South-East Asia is available to support and collaborate with the Government of Thailand and other stakeholders to further develop and implement alternatives to immigration detention to ensure that every child on the move receives the protection and care they need.For more information and media requests, please contact:Wannaporn Samutassadong â +66 65 986 0810 / wannaporn.samutassadong[@]un.org
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Press Release
30 October 2024
UNDP Launches Media Fellowship Programme to Drive Sustainable Development in Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand â In response to the pressing challenges of sustainable development in Thailand, including environmental degradation, social inequality, and economic disparities, UNDP Thailand is proud to announce the launch of the âUNDP Media Fellowship on Sustainable Development.â This initiative aims to empower journalists to play a pivotal role in promoting a sustainable and inclusive society.Journalism is a crucial force in driving societal change, fulfilling roles as an information disseminator, public educator, watchdog, advocate, and agenda setter. The 2023-24 UNDP Human Development Report highlights the critical need for reimagined cooperation among stakeholders in a polarized world where misinformation and fake news are dividing societies. Journalism, therefore, stands as one of the key stakeholders in sustaining a diverse and democratic society.From 2022 to 2025, UNDP has prioritized three key areas to support Thailandâs advancement towards a green economy, the enhancement of human capital, and the principle of leaving no one behind, including people with disabilities, LGBTI individuals, youth, and ethnic minorities. Our extensive experience across these development areas underscores the critical role of journalism in addressing key societal challenges, linking interconnected development issues, and driving systemic change.The UNDP Media Fellowship will focus on four thematic areas crucial to sustainable development: disability inclusion, gender equality, nature conservation and climate action, and human rights promotion. These themes are informed by UNDPâs SDG Localization initiative in 15 pilot provinces, which revealed limited awareness of climate change, particularly at the local level, and common challenges related to inequalities across provinces. This data and evidence will serve as valuable resources for journalists in their reporting efforts.In alignment with the SDG provincial monitoring and a pre-fellowship survey conducted with journalists, the fellowship will address the top three issues journalists wish to deepen their understanding of: nature and climate change, gender inequality, and biases against people with disabilities.The need to strengthen journalism as a vital institution in combating discrimination and protecting the public interest is well-documented by UNDP studies. A national survey on the experiences of discrimination against LGBTI people in Thailand revealed that 47.5% of LGBTI individuals have faced at least one form of discrimination, including within their families. Additionally, the UNDP's SLAPPs report highlights the risks faced by citizens defending the public interest, with 37% of incidents resulting in violence.To equip journalists with the tools needed to address misinformation and disinformation, the fellowship will incorporate sessions on these four thematic areas, supported by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism. This training will provide practical practices for journalists to report with respectful language, ensure accurate information, and address misinformation and disinformation, especially during critical times or emergency situations. The fellowship is designed to complement another training program on crisis communication, focusing specifically on addressing misinformation and disinformation in crises, targeting journalists, government officers, intelligence units, and relevant stakeholders.The UNDP Media Fellowship offers a unique platform for journalists to deepen their understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals, explore interconnected and cross-cutting development areas, and engage with practitioners, stakeholders, and experts. Through investigative reporting, storytelling, and advocacy, journalists are empowered to amplify the voices of vulnerable populations, challenge city-focused narratives in Thailandâs media landscape, and drive meaningful change in sustainable development and social inclusion.
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