United Nations 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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24 October 2025

United Nations Day 2025

‎On 24 October 2025, Thailand marked United Nations Day and the 80th anniversary of the UN by reaffirming its commitment to multilateralism and the 2030 Agenda.

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Press Release

29 November 2025

Thailand Celebrates International Volunteer Day 2025 and Launches the International Volunteer Year for Sustainable Development 2026 (IVY 2026)

Bangkok, 29 November 2025 – The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Thailand (UNRCO), the United Nations Volunteers Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (UNV Asia-Pacific), the United Nations Development Programme in Thailand (UNDP Thailand), the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), and the Together Foundation for People with Disabilities and Society, jointly celebrated International Volunteer Day (IVD) 2025 at Queen Sirikit Park, Bangkok.Held under the global theme “Every Contribution Matters”, the event marked Thailand’s national kick-off of the International Volunteer Year for Sustainable Development 2026 (IVY 2026). The celebration showcased Thailand’s vibrant volunteer spirit and its commitment to promoting inclusion, community engagement, and sustainable development.Key activities included the “Run Together for Inclusion” inclusive run, which created a space where persons with disabilities, volunteers, youth networks, and members of the public could run together on an equal footing—reflecting that volunteerism is a platform accessible to all and one in which everyone can participate with pride. The event also featured “A Ripple of Kindness”, a giving and sharing initiative through which essential relief items were collected to support the assistance and recovery of flood-affected communities in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. Volunteers from all sectors jointly sorted and delivered the donated items to the Prince of Songkla University Volunteer Center, with strong support from volunteers, event participants, and private-sector networks—particularly the Saha Group—in line with the organization’s cooperate volunteer concept.Government and UN leaders commend Thailand’s national culture of volunteerismSenior representatives joining the event included:Ms. Sunee Srisongtakarunlert, Deputy Permanent Secretary, MSDHSMr. Chetthaphan Maksamphan, Deputy Permanent Secretary, MFAMs. Niamh Collier-Smith, UN Resident Coordinator ad interim and UNDP Resident Representative in ThailandMr. Christian Hainzl, Regional Manager, UNV Asia–PacificIn his address, Mr. Chetthaphan emphasized that IVD is marked annually on 5 December to honour volunteers worldwide and to raise awareness of their contributions to national development. He highlighted that Thailand has more than 18 million formal and informal volunteers (as of 30 September 2025) playing a vital role in community services, social assistance, and local development.UN Resident Coordinator ad interim highlights Thailand as a model of civic engagementMs. Niamh Collier-Smith underscored volunteerism as “one of the most powerful forces driving sustainable development”, noting that volunteers “strengthen communities, protect the environment, and ensure that no one is left behind.”She commended Thailand’s long-standing tradition of civic engagement, describing the country’s 18 million volunteers as “an extraordinary demonstration of community leadership and national solidarity.” She also highlighted the importance of inclusive volunteering, noting that “activities like today’s Run Together for Inclusion show how Thai volunteer networks embrace diversity, especially by ensuring persons with disabilities are part of the movement.”Ms. Collier-Smith reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to support Thailand’s leadership in the upcoming International Volunteer Year:“Thailand’s launch today reflects strong national leadership and positions the country as a regional and global example. The UN stands firmly as a partner as Thailand moves from today’s celebration into the global observance of 2026.”She added that the theme “Every Contribution Matters” captures the essence of IVY 2026 because “every act of volunteering, big or small, helps build a greener, more inclusive society.”UNV underscores global trends and Thailand’s leadership in IVY 2026In his remarks, Mr. Christian Hainzl, Regional Manager of UNV Asia–Pacific, highlighted the significance of IVD 2025 as the year’s official launch of IVY 2026, as proclaimed by the UN General Assembly through resolution A/RES/78/127.He emphasized that IVY 2026 aims to be “truly inclusive—to ensure that everyone’s contribution is seen, valued, and recognized.” He praised Thailand for “its inspiring leadership as the first country in Asia to appoint a national IVY focal point and a national committee.”Mr. Hainzl highlighted significant global and regional trends in volunteerism, noting that 2.1 billion people—over a quarter of the world’s population—volunteer regularly each month, and that UNV will soon launch the Global Index of Volunteer Engagement as part of the State of the World’s Volunteerism Report to be unveiled on the International Volunteer Day, 5 December 2025 in New York.He concluded with a call to action:“Let us use IVY 2026 as a year of celebration, inspiration and solidarity—but also a year of action. Let us build systems for volunteering that are inclusive, support volunteers, and allow every person—regardless of age, gender, ability or background—to contribute meaningfully to society.”Thailand prepares for Thailand Volunteer Year 2026Deputy Permanent Secretary Ms. Sunee outlined national priorities for Thailand’s upcoming Thailand Volunteer Year 2026, which will align with the global IVY agenda. Key priorities include:Strengthening policy and legal frameworks for volunteerismEnhancing volunteer management systems toward international standardsExpanding awareness, capacity-building and motivation among volunteer networksThese initiatives will be complemented by efforts such as a National Volunteer Web Portal, regional volunteer coordination mechanisms, and continued collaboration with state media.A strong start to a year of global volunteer actionThe celebration marks Thailand’s early leadership in IVY 2026—positioning the country as a regional champion of inclusive, community-driven development. The UN system in Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Government, civil society, volunteer networks, youth groups, and persons with disabilities to ensure that volunteerism continues to drive resilience, equality and sustainable progress.

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08 December 2025

“รมว.พัฒนา” หนุนลดปัญหาอุบัติเหตุทางถนนจาก “หลับใน” เร่งให้รู้เท่าทันอาการเสี่ยง พร้อมผลักดันมาตรการที่ยั่งยืน

รัฐมนตรีว่าการกระทรวงสาธารณสุข เปิดประชุมวิชาการขับเคลื่อนนโยบายระดับชาติ “ง่วงไม่ขับ ชีวิตไม่เสี่ยง” สร้างการรู้เท่าทันอาการเสี่ยงที่ส่งผลต่อสมรรถนะการขับขี่ เพื่อลดการเกิดอุบัติเหตุจากการ “หลับใน” ซึ่งเป็นสาเหตุอันดับ 3 ของอุบัติเหตุทางถนน พร้อมผลักดันให้เกิดมาตรการที่ยั่งยืนตามแผนแม่บทแห่งชาติความปลอดภัยทางถนน ลดอัตราการเสียชีวิตจากอุบัติเหตุจาก 26 คนต่อประชากรแสนคน ในปี 2567 ให้เหลือไม่เกิน 12 คนต่อประชากรแสนคน ภายในปี 2570 วันนี้ (8 ธันวาคม 2568) ที่ โรงแรมพูลแมน คิง เพาเวอร์ กรุงเทพมหานคร นายพัฒนา พร้อมพัฒน์ รัฐมนตรีว่าการกระทรวงสาธารณสุข เปิดการประชุมวิชาการขับเคลื่อนนโยบายระดับชาติ “ง่วงไม่ขับ ชีวิตไม่เสี่ยง” National Road Safety Campaign “Don’t Drive Drowsy” Stay Awake, Stay Alive โดยมี พญ. อายหลัน หลี (Dr. Alian Li) ผู้แทนองค์การอนามัยโลกประจำประเทศไทย นพ.โสภณ เอี่ยมศิริถาวร รองปลัดกระทรวงสาธารณสุข นพ.มณเฑียร คณาสวัสดิ์ อธิบดีกรมควบคุมโรค นพ.มนูญ ลีเชวงวงศ์ ประธานกรรมการทุนง่วงอย่าขับ ในพระอุปถัมภ์สมเด็จพระเจ้าพี่นางเธอ เจ้าฟ้ากัลยานิวัฒนา กรมหลวงนราธิวาสราชนครินทร์ มูลนิธิรามาธิบดี ผู้บริหารกระทรวงสาธารณสุข และผู้แทนหน่วยงานต่างๆ ร่วมงาน นายพัฒนากล่าวว่า การบาดเจ็บและเสียชีวิตจากอุบัติเหตุทางถนนเป็นปัญหาสำคัญในระดับประเทศและระดับโลก โดยในปี 2567 ไทยมีผู้เสียชีวิตทางถนน 17,477 ราย บาดเจ็บกว่า 1.3 ล้านคน ในจำนวนนี้บาดเจ็บสาหัส 228,018 คน ส่งผลให้มีผู้พิการถึง 10,489 คน ก่อให้เกิดความสูญเสียต่อชีวิตและทรัพย์สิน ส่งผลต่อสังคม เศรษฐกิจ และความมั่นคง เฉพาะมูลค่าความสูญเสียจากผู้เสียชีวิตจากอุบัติเหตุทางถนนในแต่ละปี สูงถึงร้อยละ 6 ของ GDP ซึ่งกระทรวงสาธารณสุข นอกจากดำเนินบทบาทหลักในการรักษา พัฒนาระบบการแพทย์ฉุกเฉินเพื่อช่วยเหลือผู้บาดเจ็บได้ทันท่วงที รวมถึงเพิ่มศักยภาพการรักษาเพื่อเพิ่มอัตราการรอดชีวิตให้มากขึ้น ยังบูรณาการร่วมกับหน่วยงานที่เกี่ยวข้องดำเนินการด้านความปลอดภัยทางถนน เช่น การรณรงค์ “ดื่มไม่ขับ” เพื่อป้องกันการเกิดอุบัติเหตุและลดความสูญเสีย ให้ได้ตามเป้าหมายแผนแม่บทแห่งชาติความปลอดทางถนน คือ อัตราการเสียชีวิตจากอุบัติเหตุไม่เกิน 12 คนต่อประชากรแสนคน ภายในปี 2570 จากในปี 2567 ที่อยู่ที่ 26 คนต่อประชากรแสนคน นายพัฒนากล่าวต่อว่า “การหลับใน” ถือเป็นสาเหตุอันดับ 3 ของอุบัติเหตุทางถนน รองจากการขับรถเร็วและการตัดหน้ากระชั้นชิด (ข้อมูลจากระบบ PRS : Police Road Safety ของสำนักงานตำรวจแห่งชาติ) โดยปัจจัยสำคัญเกี่ยวข้องกับสุขภาพของผู้ขับขี่ เช่น การอดนอน ภาวะหยุดหายใจขณะหลับ โรคประจำตัวหรือยา ซึ่งส่งผลต่อสมาธิและการตอบสนอง และทำให้เกิดความรุนแรงสูงกว่าสาเหตุอื่น เนื่องจากทำให้สูญเสียการควบคุมรถโดยสิ้นเชิง ส่งผลให้ผู้ร่วมถนนได้รับบาดเจ็บหรือเสียชีวิตจำนวนมาก จึงจำเป็นต้องส่งเสริมให้ประชาชนรู้เท่าทันอาการเสี่ยงและสามารถป้องกันตนเองได้ โดยสร้างความรอบรู้ด้านข้อจำกัด และสมรรถนะทางสุขภาพต่อการขับขี่ รวมถึงผลักดันให้เกิดมาตรการที่ยั่งยืนในการลดอุบัติเหตุจากการหลับใน เนื่องจากปัจจุบันไทยยังไม่มีกฎหมายเฉพาะที่ควบคุมพฤติกรรม “หลับในขณะขับรถ” ด้าน นพ.มณเฑียรกล่าวว่า การประชุมวิชาการขับเคลื่อนนโยบายระดับชาติ “ง่วงไม่ขับ ชีวิตไม่เสี่ยง” จัดขึ้นเพื่อสร้างความตระหนักรู้และผลักดันนโยบายการป้องกันอุบัติเหตุทางถนนจากปัญหาการหลับในขณะขับขี่ ซึ่งเป็นหนึ่งในสาเหตุสำคัญที่ทำให้เกิดการบาดเจ็บและเสียชีวิต โดยกรมควบคุมโรค ได้รับการสนับสนุนงบประมาณบางส่วนจากองค์การอนามัยโลกประจำประเทศไทย เพื่อ Kick-off กิจกรรมการรณรงค์ “ง่วงไม่ขับ” ประกอบด้วย การสร้างความรอบรู้ด้านข้อจำกัดของร่างกายประเด็นความเหนื่อยล้า หลับใน, สมรรถนะทางสุขภาพต่อการขับขี่, การปฏิบัติตัว รวมทั้งเทคโนโลยีในการตรวจรักษา เพื่อจัดการกับปัญหาดังกล่าว

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24 October 2025

Giving Waste a Second Life Through Local Wisdom: Pasatorn Dechsiriudom-Khokanate Rungsanthia

Pasatorn Dechsiriudom and Khokanate Rungsanthia see value where others see waste. At Uanklom Happy Farm, they are turning agricultural leftovers into business.Using rice straw, fruit peels, and sugarcane bagasse, the pair produce natural dyes for the Thai textile industry. What started as a simple experiment with wood chips has evolved into a sophisticated operation, supported by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to scale up capacity and refine eco-friendly production methods.Their work is an example of the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economy. By replacing chemical dyes with natural alternatives, they protect the environment while creating stable jobs for older persons and people with disabilities in their community."Everyone should see the true value of nature and use the resources around us with understanding and responsibility," they share.Their work was recognised with first prize in the “Ploy Dai… Pasuk” initiative, organised by UNIDO in partnership with Thailand’s Department of Industrial Works and other partners, with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The recognition affirms Uanklom Happy Farm’s role beyond natural dye production. It has become a learning centre that demonstrates how community-based economies and sustainability can grow side by side.Today, Uanklom Happy Farm is evolving into a learning centre and community-based tourism space. It offers local residents, students, and visitors the chance to learn about sustainable natural dyeing and the local knowledge behind Thai textile traditions, proving that what is discarded can become the foundation of a sustainable future.

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05 January 2026

Eight-year PROMISE Transforms Two Million Lives in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) concludes its flagship regional programme – Poverty Reduction Through Safe Migration, Skills Development and Enhanced Job Placement (PROMISE) – after eight years of implementation across South-East Asia, benefiting more than 2 million migrant workers and promoting policy coherence at both national and regional levels. Launched in 2017 and implemented in two phases in Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Myanmar and Thailand, IOM’s PROMISE programme has strengthened safe migration systems, expanded skills development and recognition, and improved job placement pathways – helping migrants and their families achieve better livelihoods and economic resilience, while supporting governments and the private sector to facilitate skills transfer and meet labour market needs. Supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the PROMISE programme provided practical solutions to a perennial question: How can labour migration be safe, fair and mutually beneficial for both migrant workers and the economies that depend on their contributions? “The Asia-Pacific region is home to more than 40 per cent of all migrants globally, many of whom fill critical labour gaps,” highlighted Iori Kato, Regional Director at IOM's Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific. “Our role as IOM is to facilitate these dialogues and help migrant workers, employers and host governments find practical solutions that balance the needs of the labour market and the aspirations of the migrant workers, prioritizing their safety, protection and rights.” Through the PROMISE programme, IOM has demonstrated that safe labour migration is achievable when skills development, ethical recruitment and policy coherence go hand in hand. Over its two phases, more than 43,000 migrant workers accessed training and certification opportunities directly through the PROMISE programme, while over 340,000 migrants received support services in their countries of origin. Overall, more than 2 million migrant workers benefited from improved access to skills development, job referrals, safe migration outreach, reintegration support and assistance through Migrant Resource Centres. In the countries of implementation, IOM-supported technical skills training helped reduce unemployment rates from 17 per cent to just 4 per cent among surveyed beneficiaries, and contributed to upward job mobility among migrant workers. Thai language courses strengthened workplace communication and social inclusion, while entrepreneurship and financial literacy training empowered migrants to start businesses and increase income upon return to their home countries, leading to greater economic resilience. Employers have adopted more inclusive practices, with over 100 companies in Thailand investing in sustainable in-service training programmes for their migrant workforce. Enhanced referral mechanisms in countries of origin improved job matching and upskilling opportunities for returning migrants, supporting them create sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their communities.  IOM also helped strengthen skills recognition, expanding from national implementation to regional cooperation. Through the PROMISE programme, IOM supported governments and ASEAN partners in developing pathways for cross-border skills recognition, including through the adoption of the Vientiane Declaration on Skills Mobility, Recognition and Development for Migrant Workers, laying the groundwork for fairer and more predictable labour mobility across the region. “The opportunity now lies in building upon the successes and best practices of this programme and continuing to invest in the potential of migrant workers, ensuring migration remains a driver of sustainable development,” added Mr. Kato. IOM’s Poverty Reduction through Safe Migration, Skills Development and Enhanced Job Placement (PROMISE) programme is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. Read more about the programme impact here: thailand.iom.int/sites/g/files/tmzbdl1371/files/documents/2025-12/promise-impact-assessment.pdf For more info, please contact mediathailand@iom.int.

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17 December 2025

Thailand launches its first National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security

Bangkok, Thailand — The Royal Thai Government, through the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with UN Women, officially launched Thailand’s first National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (NAP WPS) today, marking a historic milestone in the country’s commitment to gender equality, inclusive security and sustainable peace. With this move, Thailand becomes the 15th country in the Asia-Pacific region, and the 116th country globally, to adopt a NAP WPS aimed at achieving the full and equal representation and participation of women in all levels of peace and security efforts. The launch was followed by an orientation workshop for line ministries to strengthen readiness for nationwide implementation. The NAP WPS advances the country’s obligations under Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on WPS, UN Security Council resolution 1325 and subsequent resolutions. The Plan was developed from 2022 to 2024 through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder process involving government agencies, women’s groups, youth, academia, civil society organizations (CSOs) and community leaders across the country, including regional public hearings with the support of UN Women. It was approved by the National Committee on Policy and Strategy for the Development of the Status of Women on 5 November 2025. “This Plan was shaped by the voices of women, youth, community leaders and partners across the country to equip us to respond more effectively to current challenges, whether related to conflict, violence, crises or digital threats, while ensuring women’s leadership and protection remain at the forefront of our national agenda,” said Jatuporn Rojanaparnich, Director-General of the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Thailand’s NAP WPS strengthens and expands earlier national efforts, including the Measure and Guideline on WPS (2017–2021) and the Coordination Center for Children and Women in the Southern Border Provinces. Thailand’s NAP WPS is built around four priority pillars aligned with the global WPS framework: Participation – Enhancing women’s leadership and meaningful participation in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, policymaking and security mechanismsProtection – Strengthening legislation, services and multisectoral responses to protect women and girls from all forms of violence, especially amid conflict and insecurityPrevention – Addressing root causes of conflict and gender-based violence through early-warning systems, social cohesion, community resilience and data-driven risk mitigationRelief and recovery – Ensuring gender-responsive crisis management, humanitarian support and long-term recovery efforts, including in border and conflict-affected areas.In parallel with the NAP development, UN Women and the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development supported the establishment of WPS Networks, WPS Focal Points and Women’s Empowerment (WE) Centres across Thailand’s border provinces. These platforms support coordination between women leaders, CSOs and local governments, and enable communities to meaningfully contribute to NAP implementation and monitoring. To date, four regional WPS Networks and nine WE Centres have been established in the Southern, Northern, Eastern and North-Eastern border regions, strengthening local capacities for conflict prevention, social cohesion, digital safety and crisis response. [Click here to see] Thailand's National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security 2024-2027 “The launch of this National Action Plan reflects Thailand’s dedication to advancing security and peace through inclusive and gender-responsive approaches,” said Christine Arab, UN Women Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific. “Its strength lies in how it was built – through collaboration with women leaders, community networks, line ministries and civil society across all regions. UN Women is honoured to accompany Thailand on this journey.” Over 20 line ministries and national bodies are assigned roles within the NAP WPS, including those responsible for justice, security, digital governance, environment, public health and social development. The orientation workshop will introduce ministries to the NAP WPS’s expected results, implementation responsibilities, and reporting mechanisms to ensure coordinated and effective national execution. The NAP WPS also emphasizes partnerships with civil society, women human rights defenders, youth organizations and community groups – as well as collaboration with international partners including Australia, Canada, Republic of Korea and the United Kingdom – whose support contributed to localizing the WPS agenda and strengthening institutional capacities across Thailand. View more photos online Originally published by UN Women

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12 December 2025

Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health and IOM Work to Promote Migrants’ Access to Health Services

Tak, Thailand – The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Thailand have launched a two-year initiative in Tak Province to improve access to essential healthcare services and health insurance for migrants along the Thailand–Myanmar border. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks by strengthening the capacity of Migrant Health Volunteers (MHVs) and frontline health workers, while fostering cross-border cooperation on disease surveillance. “An estimated 1.8 million migrants in irregular situations and a lot of migrant workers in Thailand still cannot access the national health insurance system, putting them at risk of exposure to communicable diseases such as tuberculosis (TB), malaria and HIV,” said Dr Supachoke Vejjaphanphesat, Ministry of Public Health Inspector-General, quoting the data from Thailand Migration Report 2024. “When migrants lack healthcare, everyone’s health is at risk,” continued Dr. Supachoke. “Recognizing this, Thailand has made tremendous efforts to expand universal health coverage to migrants and mobile populations, as well as collaborate with various sectors and international organizations to support these population groups." According to Thailand Migration Report 2024, there were 1.1 million Myanmar migrants who arrived in Thailand, including nearly 40 per cent who entered through Tak Province, placing greater demands on local health systems. Many migrants in vulnerable situations face barriers in accessing healthcare, including language, documentation, and lack of information. To address this challenge, MOPH will collaborate with IOM to implement the project ‘Enhancing Local Migration Health System Governance in Tak Province to Improve Migrant Inclusion in Universal Health Coverage’ to enhance migration health governance and promote improved access to essential healthcare among migrants and border communities. “This pilot initiative marks an important step in ensuring that migrants and border communities have access to the care they need,” highlighted Dr Leena Bhandari, Chief Migration Health Officer at IOM Thailand. “In an increasingly mobile world, investing in migrant health is a win–win scenario - for both people on the move and the communities that host them.” The project will (1) Enhance the capacity of Migrant Health Volunteers (MHV) to serve as the bridge between the migrant communities and health services providers; (2) Strengthen the frontline health workers and border hospitals, for example, Mae Sot General Hospital; and (3) Develop cross-border cooperation on disease surveillance, information exchange, and risk management. This initiative was made possible with financial support from IOM’s Development Fund. For more info, please contact Moemen Nader at mnader@iom.int or Anushma Shrestha at anshrestha@iom.int.

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30 November 2025

A Safe Journey with Her to End Digital Violence: Families unite for safer digital spaces in Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand — Hundreds of Thai and international families, students and supporters gathered today in Benjakitti Park and at the Thai–Belgian Bridge for “A Safe Journey With Her to End Digital Violence”, a family ride and picnic organised as part of the UNiTE 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence under the 2025 focus “Ending Digital Violence against all Women and Girls.”The event was organised by the Embassy of Belgium, together with the Embassies of Luxembourg and the Netherlands, in partnership with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), UN Women and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).The programme opened with remarks by H.E. Mr Michel Parys, Ambassador of Belgium, followed by welcomes from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, UN Women on behalf of the United Nations in Thailand. The Ambassador of Belgium and the Governor of Bangkok cut the ribbon, and the Benelux Ambassadors led the ride from Benjakitti Park over the Green Bridge and via Lumpini Park to the Thai–Belgian Bridge, symbolising Thai–Belgian friendship and joint action for safe public spaces. Families returned for a picnic beside the Benjakitti Forest Park Museum, a Children’s Play Street, bike parcours, digital-safety games, and an Emoji Selfie and Pledge Wall.The event built directly on the recommendations of the academic seminar “A Safe Journey With Her: Ending Digital Violence against All Women and Girls”, held at the Belgian Residence on 27 November.“From the Thai–Belgian Bridge to the Children’s Play Street, Belgium and Thailand have joined hands to create safe spaces offline that reinforce safer behaviour online. We are proud to support families so that women and girls can thrive both offline and online,” said H.E. Mr Michel Parys, Ambassador of Belgium to Thailand.Transforming principles into practiceDigital violence is real-world violence. Families, schools, platforms and policymakers all play a critical role in preventing and responding to online abuse. Safe, inclusive public spaces strengthen community resilience and reinforce safer behaviour online. Families today made simple but powerful pledges, such as pausing before posting, helping friends report abuse and practising kindness online.Those most targeted often include women and girls, LGBTQI+ persons, young people, older persons, and individuals in marginalised communities — reminding us that digital safety must protect everyone, across all ages and identities.“Community engagement is essential for prevention. When families learn simple steps towards digital safety together, online spaces become safer for everyone,” said Christine Arab, Regional Director, UN Women Asia and the Pacific.The Children’s Play Street, inspired by Belgium’s Speelstraat model, invited children and families to recognise positive and harmful online behaviour using good and bad emoji cards, then move between game stations to practise how to respond to bullying, grooming and scams, and how to report abuse.At the Emoji Selfie and Pledge Wall, families chose a positive emoticon, made simple pledges such as pausing before posting or supporting friends who experience online violence, took a selfie and added it to the wall under the message #NoExcuse for Online Abuse.By engaging children, teenagers, parents and caregivers of all backgrounds, the activities promoted intergenerational learning and reinforced the idea that digital respect and safety begin within families and communities.“Simple daily actions matter. Today’s ride, play street and picnic show how families can build kindness, safety and solidarity online,” said Cindy Sirinya Bishop, UN Women Regional Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific, who spoke at the event and guided participants on the ride and making pledges.By linking safe public spaces offline to safer behaviour online, A Safe Journey With Her to End Digital Violence underlined that ending digital violence against women and girls requires coordinated action from governments, platforms, communities and families.Belgium’s commitmentFrom 25 November to 10 December, the Embassy of Belgium in Bangkok joins the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, in support of UN Women’s UNiTE campaign. The 2025 focus is Ending Digital Violence against all Women and Girls.Belgium advances a holistic response to gender-based violence, aligned with the Istanbul Convention and its National Action Plan. Internationally, Belgium supports UN Women and UNFPA and led UN Human Rights Council resolution 56/19 on technology-facilitated gender-based violence. View more photos online Originally published by UN Women

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Story

04 November 2025

Champions of Change: When Preparedness Becomes Culture

This interview was conducted in September, 2025 by UNDP as part of the regional Tsunami Project, supported by the Government of Japan. Every year, the sound of the evacuation bell echoes across Chumchonbansaladan School, a school on Koh Lanta Island, Krabi province in southern Thailand. It’s not an alarm - it’s a lesson. For Director Ratchadaporn Thanlek and Teacher Pongsak B. Puangphet, tsunami evacuation drills are more than just an exercise – they are a promise to protect their students, and to their families, and to their community through preparedness. “Be prepared for everything, when you prepare, you are conscious, and when you learn, you will master it.” – This is the life moto that Director Ratchadaporn Thanlek lives by. Turning lessons into leadership For both champions, who have become leading school teachers of the regional Tsunami Project, the reason behind their dedication was always clear. When the Indian Ocean Tsunami in 2004 struck, Pongsak’s sister was on Phuket Island, one of the hardest hits areas. His family waited three agonising days before learning she had survived. Since then, he dedicated himself to building resilience, becoming a preparedness instructor and later a facilitator supporting other schools in their preparedness efforts. For Ratchadaporn, living and working in a tsunami-prone area has made preparedness deeply personal. She dedicated herself to preparing her students for tsunamis. Her commitment and proactive approach have made Chumchonbansaladan School a model for others, showcasing how school leadership and preparedness can protect future generations. Her dedication embodies the true heart of this World Tsunami Awareness Day: preparedness saves lives. From lessons to action Three years ago, when Chumchonbansaladan School joined the UNDP-Government of Japan regional Tsunami Project - an initiative to help strengthen school tsunami preparedness across Asia and the Pacific - they turned their motivation into action. With support from the project, Ratchadapron, Pongsak, other school teachers and student leaders at Chumchonbansaladan School developed a tsunami evacuation plan that included measures to support students with disabilities. Together, they assessed evacuation routes, communicated with foreign teachers and students, and conducted drills, working together with students, parents, and local authorities to turn tsunami preparedness into an ongoing, participatory process, “We learn together,” says Pongsak. “It’s a participatory process, we assess the area, divide responsibilities, and test the plan to see what works and what needs to improve.” At Chumchonbansaladan School, preparedness is everyone’s responsibility. Each year, teachers work with students and the local education committee to review the school evacuation plan, ensuring it aligns with the provincial disaster management framework. From school to community At Chumchonbansaladan School, what began as school-based disaster drills soon revealed a critical gap: the evacuation centre was too small to accommodate everyone. Recognising these risks, they brought together community members and local administrative organizations to clear the area, build new stairs to improve accessibility to higher levels, and reinforce the overall structure to ensure that the evacuation centre could serve the whole community. Their efforts show that when preparedness starts in the classroom, its impact can extend far beyond the school gates. A lasting culture of preparedness What began as an initiative under the Tsunami Project has grown into a lasting culture of preparedness. At Chumchonbansaladan School, drills are part of the school calendar, and preparedness has become second nature. In this small island school, preparedness is a way of life, longer just a word or a topic to be studied.

Originally published by the United Nations Development Programme

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Press Release

28 December 2025

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on Cambodia-Thailand

The Secretary-General welcomes the ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand as a positive step towards alleviating the suffering of civilians, ending current hostilities, and creating an environment conducive to achieving lasting peace.The Secretary-General expresses his appreciation to Malaysia, the current ASEAN Chair, as well as China and the United States, for their efforts in support of a peaceful resolution of the situation.The United Nations stands ready to support efforts aimed at sustaining peace and stability in the region.

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Press Release

04 November 2025

Asia-Pacific forestry leaders gather in Chiang Mai to advance ‘Healthy Forests Feed the Future’ agenda

Chiang Mai, Bangkok — Forests sustain over 22 million people, supporting livelihoods, food security, and agricultural productivity through ecosystem services such as pollination, soil fertility, and water regulation. They also act as carbon sinks and harbor rich biodiversity, making them critical to achieving the Paris Agreement, the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and the Sustainable Development Goals.Yet, forests face growing pressures from land conversion, urbanization, unsustainable use, and climate-driven threats such as deforestation, wildfires, pests, and floods. Declining biodiversity and ecosystem services put millions of livelihoods at risk, according to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) report ‘The State of the World’s Forests 2024’.More than 120 forestry experts, including Heads of Forestry from 20 countries are addressing these challenges at the Thirty-First Session of the Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission (APFC 31) and Asia-Pacific Forestry Week 2025 in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and online from 3–7 November 2025. Hosted by the Royal Forest Department of Thailand in collaboration with FAO, the event focuses on innovative forest management, inclusive partnerships, and supportive policies.Forests as foundations of food securityThe theme, “Healthy Forests Feed the Future,” highlights the role of forests in sustaining food systems and resilient landscapes. Discussions aim to guide regional priorities and help countries contribute to global biodiversity, climate, and development goals.“This platform allows us to share Thailand’s experiences in sustainable forest management and learn from others,” said Nikorn Siratochananon, Director General, Royal Forest Department, Thailand. “It reinforces our shared commitment to conserve forests as a source of life, livelihoods, and food security.”“Healthy forests are the backbone of healthy food systems,” said Alue Dohong, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific. “Forests enhance food availability by supplying a diverse range of wild foods and supporting sustainable agriculture through ecosystem services such as pollination, water regulation, and soil protection.”Key discussions and launchesParticipants are exploring how forests contribute to sustainable agrifood systems, informed by the 2025 Global Forest Resources Assessment, and forest-based bioeconomy approaches that offer pathways for sustainable growth and green jobs.The event also marks the launch of a new joint FAO–Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR)–World Agroforestry (ICRAF) technical report, “Agroforestry for Wood Production – Insights from Multifunctional Smallholder Tree Farming Systems in Asia and the Pacific”, providing guidance for smallholder farmers to produce wood while maintaining ecosystem functions and diversifying incomes — an example of showing how healthy forests drive sustainable futures.“The Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission (APFC) remains a vital bridge for regional collaboration,” said Preecha Ongprasert, Chair of the APFC. “Through shared knowledge and collective action, we can ensure forests truly feed the future.”Regional collaboration and next steps“As we approach COP30 in Brazil, the 31st APFC Session and APFW2025 bring together countries and partners to drive collaboration on the forest-based bioeconomy, restoration, climate, and biodiversity action — underscoring the vital role of forests and trees in resilient agrifood systems,” said Sheila Wertz-Kanounnikoff, APFC Secretary and FAO Senior Forestry Officer.The sessions reaffirm collaboration among governments, international organizations, civil society, and research networks to address regional forestry challenges and opportunities. Collaboration will also be key to ensuring that the 380 million smallholders across Asia and the Pacific, who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods, are not left behind. Ongoing initiatives, such as Result Asia-Pacific, support the restoration of degraded lands and strengthen community resilience.The next APFC session will be held in 2027, with the host country to be announced.Media Contact
Mahira Afzal, Communications Specialist
Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Bangkok, Thailand
Mahira.afzal[@]fao.orgAbout the Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission and Forestry WeekEstablished in 1949, the Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission provides a forum for Member Nations to coordinate forestry action. Asia-Pacific Forestry Week brings together stakeholders for knowledge exchange, learning, and collaboration.
Originally published by The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
in https://www.fao.org/asiapacific/news/news-detail/asia-pacific-forestry-leaders-gather-in-chiang-mai-to-advance--healthy-forests-feed-the-future--agenda/en

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Press Release

24 October 2025

Thailand Commemorates 80 Years of the United Nations, Underscoring Collective Action for a Sustainable Future

Bangkok, 24 October 2025 – Thailand marked United Nations Day and the 80th anniversary of the UN today by reaffirming its commitment to multilateralism and the 2030 Agenda as a shared pathway for peace, prosperity, and sustainable development. This year’s commemoration echoes the UN Secretary-General’s call for the world to stand together and renew the promise of the UN. Michaela Friberg-Storey, Representative of the UN Secretary-General and UN Resident Coordinator in Thailand, commended Thailand’s sustained commitment to sustainable development at home and internationally, reaffirming UN support for the country’s priorities. “Thailand’s progress towards the SDGs is driven by the determination and resilience of its people. As the UN marks its 80th anniversary today, our joint exhibition “30 Stories, 17 Goals, One Road to 2030” stands as a testament to that spirit and to the power of partnership when ‘we the peoples’ act together. They show what is possible when we work together to make real change happen, by the people, for the people, and with communities.” Sarun Charoensuwan, Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and on behalf of the Royal Thai Government, extended his congratulations on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. The UN has played a vital role in promoting peace and security, advancing sustainable development, and upholding human dignity for people around the world, he said. "I would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the United Nations for its tireless efforts, and for its enduring partnership with Thailand in advancing the well-being of our people, protecting our planet, and promoting peace, prosperity, and partnership." He also reaffirmed Thailand’s active role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its long-standing commitment as a good host to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and various UN entities based in Thailand. "We remain dedicated to providing a supportive environment for the UN system to thrive, and to ensuring that Bangkok remains a vibrant hub for multilateral collaboration in the region." At the heart of the commemoration was the unveiling of a special photo exhibition by the UN, in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The exhibition features 30 stories from across the country, highlighting the resilience and creativity of people and communities whose efforts, with UN partnerships and programmes, are helping to build a more sustainable and inclusive future. Among the featured stories are Salma Gadae from Yala, who found a second chance at education through the Learning Coin for Equitable Education initiative of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Using digital tools and reading-based scholarships, she strengthened her Thai literacy and is now a youth leader preserving her community’s cultural heritage. Sarocha Kittisiripan, a social entrepreneur with visual impairment, founded PaperyBfly and produces inclusive podcasts with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’s Youth Co:Lab initiative, turning her personal journey into social innovation that creates jobs and challenges stereotypes. Sumitr Srivisut, a farmer and community leader from Nakhon Si Thammarat, applies sustainable farming techniques learned through collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to increase productivity and income while protecting natural resources and sharing knowledge within his community. During the event, a fireside chat with these three individuals brought their experiences to the fore, offering reflections on Thailand’s journey toward the SDGs and the role of individual action in shaping a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future. The launch was attended by Member States representatives from the diplomatic corps, together with senior government officials, UN agencies, UN Goodwill Ambassadors, including Cindy Bishop and Alex Rendell, and partners from the private sector, civil society, and academia. Chadatip Chutrakul, Chief Executive Officer of Siam Piwat Group, the UN’s event partner, reflected on the importance of collaboration across sectors, noting that the private sector plays a critical role in uniting stakeholders towards shared goals. “We believe real progress comes from unity, especially when the public and private sectors, the UN, and people everywhere work together to make life better and drive our world toward sustainable growth. As the creator of global destinations, we welcome millions of visitors each year and witness the power of collaboration firsthand. By supporting this UN Day exhibition, we embrace our role in inspiring collective action from each and every one of us to create a more sustainable and inclusive future together.” The UN Day 2025 Exhibition “30 Stories, 17 Goals, One Road to 2030” is open to the public from 23 to 26 October 2025 at Siam Paragon (Living Hall, 3rd Floor). Visitors are invited to explore the 30 stories and reflect on how individual and collective actions are helping advance the SDGs and improve lives. This exhibition has been made possible in part through the support of Siam Piwat.

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Press Release

27 May 2025

Thailand Accelerates the Localization of the SDGs

Jointly organized by the Ministry of Interior, UN-Habitat and UNDP Thailand, with contributions from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), the National Statistical Office (NSO), and ESCAP, the consultation brought together 25 representatives from national ministries, provincial departments, and local municipalities, including Nakhon Si Thammarat, Surat Thani, Hat Yai, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. The meeting took place in a hybrid format in Bangkok. "SDG localization is more than a technical exercise—it is a political and transformative process that turns global aspirations into meaningful change for communities on the ground.” said Mr. Srinivasa Popuri, Chief of UN-Habitat Multi-Country Office in Thailand.Building Bridges Across Governance LevelsParticipants engaged in focused breakout sessions addressing data, capacity, and stakeholder engagement, providing detailed inputs to ensure the framework is practical, adaptable, and responsive to Thailand’s diverse local contexts.A major challenge raised was the lack of a unified and standardized central data system, which hinders data sharing between local and central levels. Local governments often collect data for national use but are unable to access the raw data themselves—limiting local-level planning and resulting in duplication of efforts.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the need for standardized, neutral, and comparable data and called for stronger interlinkages and follow-ups on localized efforts cited in the Voluntary National Review (VNR) at the provincial and local levels. Looking AheadThe consultation affirmed a shared commitment to ensuring that the finalized VLR Framework is:Inclusive of local voices and capacities;Practical for real-world implementation across diverse contexts;Adaptable to local governance structures and legal frameworks;Built on joint target-setting and cross-level coordination.This participatory milestone brings Thailand one step closer to realizing the localization of the SDGs, reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive, and community-driven development.

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