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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25 November 2024

Hundreds of cyclists ride in Bangkok to launch the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence

The Asia-Pacific region officially launches the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) today with an inclusive cycling event in Bangkok.

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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. “In today’s 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,” said Masood Karimipour, UNODC Regional Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific. “The crime of waste trafficking is taking away the value that legal, well-regulated waste trade brings to sustainable economies.”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 — such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Viet Nam — waste trafficking continues to pose a major challenge in the region. “Waste 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,” 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.“The 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,” 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., filtered_html

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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 — such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Viet Nam — 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 – 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., filtered_html

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Story

27 January 2025

Can AI close the learning gap?

On the International Day of Education, which was celebrated on Jan 24, we reflect on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. This year's focus on AI comes at a critical time, as the world grapples with a learning crisis.Even before Covid-19, 128 million young people in the Asia-Pacific were out of school, with millions more at risk of dropping out. Many of those in education are also at risk of being left behind: half of learners in the Asia-Pacific do not achieve basic literacy and numeracy by the end of primary school.We need to offer quality education that corresponds to the needs of future societies, including equipping future workers with green skills. In Thailand, students like Yuparat from Chiang Mai and Atichat from Sakon Nakhon envision schools that embrace technology, coding and AI. Their vision highlights the necessity for education systems to keep pace with the digital revolution. "My dream school should encourage the development of coding and AI skills through hands-on practice," said Yuparat, 15. Yuparat, a wheelchair user, also stressed the need for "personalised learning and flexible classrooms", in her interview with the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco)."Technology is a very important part of our lives now. I think we can use it to make things better in the future," adds Atichat Butchan, also 15. He is one of the youngest members of the UN Children Fund's (Unicef) Young People Advisory Board, which provides guidance as the organisation works with partners, including the Thai government, on education reform.The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has said AI development should benefit everyone. The Global Digital Compact, which world leaders adopted as part of the Pact of the Future last September offers a roadmap to harness AI's potential and close digital divides, with the UN committed to leading this effort. In Thailand, we are collaborating with the government to ensure digital technologies benefit all students, especially those in underserved areas. This collaboration is crucial for ensuring AI serves as a tool for inclusion, not exclusion.AI has the potential to address educational gaps by personalising learning, improving teaching efficiency and expanding access to quality education. However, this potential must be balanced with the risks, including widening the digital divide. While over 97% of schools in Thailand have internet access, there are large disparities in computer access between urban and rural schools, and only 16% of households have a computer at home. Furthermore, many students lack meaningful computer skills and more than half of 16 to 19-year-olds do not use computers to create presentations. These disparities can turn technology into a barrier rather than a facilitator of learning.Teachers are at the forefront of this digital transformation. As Tanawat Suwannapan, a history teacher in Bangkok, explains, the quality of student assignments often indicates whether a student has computer access at home, and many students lack the foundational skills to effectively use AI or search engines."Most students who use ChatGPT to complete the assignment don't understand the answers they get," says Mr Suwannapan. Many struggle to use search engines effectively, copying the first response they find, he adds: "If they cannot even select a keyword for Google, how can they write a clear prompt or verify the accuracy of a ChatGPT response?"Teachers also highlight the importance of being able to keep pace with rapidly changing technologies."Being a teacher means you have to develop yourself at all times and this includes learning digital skills," said Nurhayatee Deraoke, a teacher at Ban Than Mali School in Yala Province. However, she pointed out the challenges teachers in more remote locations face: "Our school is in a mountainous region, so Internet access is unreliable".To support teachers, Unesco's AI Competency Framework provides a roadmap, emphasising a human-centred mindset, AI ethics, foundational knowledge and problem-solving through AI. Unicef's One Teacher Thailand project has assisted over 500,000 teachers in updating their technical knowledge.The government has taken commendable steps like the "Coding for All" initiative and a National AI Strategy. To bolster these efforts, the UN advocates for investments in AI-powered learning, teacher training, digital infrastructure and data privacy, along with measures to strengthen foundational learning.Public-private partnerships will be important in expanding access to AI tools and resources. Last December, Thailand launched Unesco's Readiness Assessment Methodology, which is a diagnostic tool to assess where countries stand with regards to AI infrastructure, governance, investments, social policy and public institutions.Thailand is set to host Asia's first Unesco Global Forum on the Ethics of AI in June. This event underscores the need for collaboration among policymakers, educators and the private sector to ensure AI is ethically developed and applied. The UN also supports Thailand's digital transition. By prioritising inclusivity, equity and fairness, we can create an education system that enables every child to thrive.This is not just about technology; it's about ensuring equity and inclusion and preparing a generation to navigate a complex, AI-driven world. We must heed the visions of students like Yuparat and Atichat and ensure every child and all learners are equipped to succeed in the digital age.Michaela Friberg-Storey serves as the UN Resident Coordinator in Thailand, representing the UN Secretary-General in the country. Marina Patrier is Deputy Director at the Unesco Regional Office in Bangkok. Kyungsun Kim is Unicef's Representative for Thailand., filtered_html

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23 January 2025

Thailand’s Marriage Equality Law: Love wins and no one is left behind

Thailand is making history today as the first country in Southeast Asia to recognize marriage equality. By ensuring that all couples, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity, have the same rights to marry from the age of 18 and above, Thailand has sent a powerful message to the world: no one is left behind in love.Thailand’s progress toward this milestone reflects its long-standing commitment to the human rights of and equality for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Intersex and Queer+ (LGBTIQ+) communities over the past two decades.The 2007 Constitution prohibits unjust discrimination against persons based on sex and personal status. Thailand further demonstrated its commitment by voting in favor of key UN resolutions that strengthen human rights in relation to sexual orientation and gender identity in 2011 and 2012.In 2015, the Gender Equality Act marked a significant legislative breakthrough, criminalizing gender-based discrimination and recognizing diverse gender identities, solidifying Thailand’s position as a leader in LGBTIQ+ human rights in the region.In 2016, Thailand mandated that all educational institutions provide comprehensive sexuality education, including on gender norms and the rights of persons of diverse sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression.These transformative changes, leading to the historic adoption of the Marriage Equality Act, were made possible through sustained advocacy, evolving social attitudes, strong community mobilization and leadership, and governmental commitment.The Marriage Equality Act brings life-changing benefits to LGBTIQ+ individuals, couples, and families.Gender-neutral terms such as "spouse" now replace "husband" and "wife" in the Civil and Commercial Code, ensuring equal rights in marriage, child adoption, healthcare decisions, inheritance, and more.Notably, the legislation also raises the minimum age for marriage from 17 to 18, aligning with international standards on child rights.Thailand’s landmark achievement aligns with its international human rights obligations.Article 23 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which Thailand is a state party, guarantees the right to marry and establish a family.Similarly, Article 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) provides for the equality of rights in marriage.Article 26 of the ICCPR and Article 2 of the UDHR further guarantee equal protection of the law without discrimination, a principle enshrined as a fundamental right under customary international law.Thailand’s own Constitution, in Section 27, prohibits all forms of discrimination, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to these principles.This month, in the lead-up to the law’s implementation, the UN Country Team in Thailand, comprising 21 UN entities, together with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, convened all 77 governors.The governors pledged to advance marriage equality and gender diversity.Over 600 officials and representatives from civil society gathered at the UN Conference Centre in Bangkok, to celebrate and reaffirm their readiness to facilitate marriages under the new legislation.This moment exemplified the commitment of leaders across all levels of government to creating an inclusive society.While this achievement is historic, the journey toward full equality for LGBTIQ+ individuals in Thailand is far from over.UN analysis reveals that stigma, discrimination, and gender-based violence persist in various sectors, including families, workplaces, schools, and communities.To truly fulfill the promise of “leaving no one behind,” further steps are needed—such as enforcing anti-discrimination and gender recognition bills, along with norm change advocacy.Equality, inclusivity, and the empowerment of marginalized groups are key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The UN Country Team remains committed to supporting Thailand in reaching these goals, in collaboration with government, civil society, private sector and academia.Through our work, the UN creates an equitable environment where every individual has equal access to opportunities, resources, and rights.Thailand’s progress holds global importance and provides an opportunity to showcase its commitment to the principal of equality and non-discrimination.As UN Secretary-General António Guterres recently stated, “Inequalities can be beaten—if we commit to policies that promote equity rather than clinging to the same failed approaches.”The Marriage Equality Act embodies this spirit, serving as a meaningful step and offering a roadmap for other nations in the region and beyond.Thailand demonstrates what is possible. Now, it is time for other nations to follow suit.Yesterday, only 36 countries worldwide recognized marriage equality.Today, we reached 37 nations. The UN stands ready to support this global movement, working towards a world where all love is equal, and every individual can live with pride and dignity.That is how love wins! Original article published by Thai PBS, filtered_html

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23 January 2025

Thailand Ushers Southeast Asia’s First Same-Sex Marriages

Hundreds of LGBTQ couples on Thursday became legally married in Thailand, which celebrates a historic day as the first nation in Southeast Asia to guarantee equal marital rights for same-sex couples.Rainbow colors were everywhere in an exhibition hall atop a luxurious mall in the capital Bangkok, where the first couples inked their signatures on government documents officially proclaiming them spouses on Thursday. Pride flags and other items were handed out to couples and guests, while confetti littered the floor as people celebrated winning marriage equality.“We were so excited that we couldn’t sleep last night,” said Phisit Sirihirunchai, a 36-year-old police officer who met his now-spouse Chanathip, 42, on TikTok six years ago when he advertised a puppy for sale. “The law used to see us as friends, but now it recognizes us. We don’t have to worry so much about the future.” From Thursday, any couple aged 18 or above can register a marriage regardless of their gender, under a marriage equality law passed last year.That marks a hard-won victory for LGBTQ activists, who fought for over a decade for the same marriage recognition as heterosexual couples. They now have equal rights to inherit each other’s assets, sign medical consent forms, and jointly adopt children, among others.Around the country, 50 district offices in the capital and almost 900 sub-districts elsewhere have opened their doors, with registrars officializing marriage certificates for hundreds, if not thousands, of LGBTQ couples.It’s a major step forward for Thailand, which has long been considered an LGBTQ-friendly country, with relaxed attitudes towards gender diversity and legislation protecting LGBTQ people from most kinds of discrimination since 2015. “By working towards a society where all love is equal, and every individual can live with pride and dignity, Thailand has sent a powerful message to the world: no one is left behind in love,” said Michaela Friberg-Storey, the UN Resident Coordinator in the country. “This serves as a meaningful step and offering a roadmap for other nations in the region and beyond.”The predominantly Buddhist kingdom is only the third place in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to guarantee marriage equality. The move makes Thailand an outlier in Southeast Asia, where some countries still prosecute homosexuality and the LGBTQ community often faces discrimination.“I congratulate all Thais, because from now, every love will be supported by the law, and every couple will be able to live with dignity and pride,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said in a recorded video message. “The rainbow flag is proudly flying over Thailand.” The vital tourism industry, which accounts for about 12% of Thailand’s $500 billion economy, should indeed get a boost from “rainbow tourism.” The same-sex marriage law may attract four million more foreign visitors into Thailand annually, and generate about $2 billion in revenue within the next two years, according to a recent study commissioned by travel platform Agoda, part of US-headquartered Booking Holdings Inc.Agoda this month also launched a campaign for same-sex couples in Thailand to share their love stories on social media for a chance to win a holiday voucher worth up to 350,000 baht ($10,320).Other companies have rolled out out similar incentive programs to show their support for the country’s same-sex marriage milestone. Earlier this week, real estate developer Sansiri Pcl. and Siam Commercial Bank, the country’s third biggest lender by total assets, announced a mortgage scheme with special interest rates for newly-married LGBTQ couples looking to take out a joint loan on a Sansiri property. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has also partnered with several businesses across the country to offer special events, tour packages, and hotel and restaurant deals for LGBTQ couples to celebrate their unions in the coming weeks.And across the globe, consular officers will be ready to register same-sex unions in 94 Thai consulates or embassies, according to the government.“This legislation not only is a testament to our social advancements, but also will be one of the accelerators of economic growth and tourism development,” said Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, adding that LGBTQ tourists tend to spend 40% more than an average foreign traveler. Author: Patpicha TanakasempipatOriginal article published by Bloomberg , filtered_html

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27 December 2024

UNDRR, UNDP: Lessons for a more resilient future

Today, we honour the memory of the 230,000 lives lost to the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami and reflect on the countless lives forever changed. This tragic event, which devastated Thailand and more than a dozen other countries across the region, stands as a stark reminder of our shared responsibility to reduce disaster risks.If a tsunami of the same magnitude struck today, would the devastation be as catastrophic as it was 20 years ago? Likely not. Over the past two decades, global cooperation, led by countries like Thailand, has driven significant progress in disaster risk reduction. One of the most critical achievements is the establishment of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Early Warning System, now covering 27 countries.To build on this progress, it is essential to continue strengthening early warning systems in line with the United Nations' call for "Early Warnings for All". Such efforts ensure that communities worldwide are better prepared to act swiftly and effectively when disasters strike. Reflecting on the lessons of the 2004 tsunami, we should focus our efforts on the following critical areas:1. Recognise that disasters take many forms: A multi-hazard approach recognises that disasters are diverse. They can be geological, technological, biological, and those exacerbated by the climate crisis, such as extreme heat. The United Nations' Secretary-General has called for urgent action to address extreme heat, which disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations. Integrating diverse hazards, including extreme heat, into early warning systems, ensures a comprehensive approach to disaster preparedness.2. Shift from reactive to proactive investments in disaster resilience: The 2004 tsunami underscored the need to shift from reactive to proactive investments in resilience. Early warning systems not only save lives but also offer substantial economic beneits -- up to a 20-fold return on investment through avoided losses. Integrating dedicated funding for disaster risk reduction into national budgets is essential to implementing e$ective measures and strategies.3. Empower local actors to reduce risks: Equipping frontline communities and local authorities with resources and leadership roles ensures that solutions are tailored to the unique risks they face. The "Making Cities Resilient 2030" initiative, led by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction's (UNDRR), supports local governments and communities in integrating disaster risk reduction into planning and policies, thereby strengthening resilience at the community level. The "Tsunami Project", led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Japan, focuses on fostering a culture of tsunami preparedness, particularly in schools and communities, to help ensure that the devastating losses from the Indian Ocean Tsunami are never repeated. This partnership has supported over 700 schools in 24 Asia-Pacific countries to conduct tsunami drills and education programmes, engaging over 218,000 students, teachers, local officials, and community members. Such strategies that prioritise "Building Back Better" and recovery readiness before disasters strike lay the foundation for stronger, more resilient societies capable of withstanding future shocks and recover faster.4. Leave no one behind: Disasters disproportionately impact women, children, older persons, and persons with disabilities. Engaging them in designing and implementing early warning systems and risk reduction measures leverages their knowledge, ensures better protection and empowers them. Thailand is one of the countries where the "Tsunami Project" has shown considerable success. By fostering education, inclusivity, and community engagement, UNDP, in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC), and the Thai Red Cross Society, developed the "National Guidelines for Tsunami Evacuation Plans and Drills for Schools in Thailand". These guidelines are now adopted by schools across Thailand to ensure students and teachers are equipped with preparedness plans and evacuation drills. In Thailand, the partnership also supported students with disabilities. For example, through the process of conducting drills, evacuation routes in schools were upgraded to become more wheelchair-friendly.The 2004 tsunami taught us critical lessons about recognising natural warning signs and the importance of seeking safety on higher ground. Passing these lessons to today's youth -- many of whom were too young to remember or not yet born -- is indispensable for building a culture of preparedness. In 2025, with this need in mind, UNDP will broaden its efforts by helping countries to integrate tsunami preparedness into national policies and school curricula, in order to ensure that all schools and communities are empowered to reduce their risks and increase their safety in the event of a tsunami.Thailand's progress in rebuilding after the 2004 tsunami exemplifies what is possible when governments, communities and businesses come together. Beyond reconstruction, Thailand has developed deep expertise in disaster risk reduction and has emerged as a strong advocate for international cooperation. This positions Thailand uniquely to share its knowledge and support other countries across the ASEAN region and beyond in building their resilience against future threats. International cooperation and goodwill are the only way to address today's challenges and transform them into opportunities for stronger, more thriving countries and societies.Marco Toscano-Rivalta is the Regional Chief for Asia-Pacific of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). Niamh Collier-Smith is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Thailand.This op-ed was originally published by the Bangkok Post., filtered_html

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Press Release

24 January 2025

Southeast Asian countries advance climate-smart agriculture through regional cooperation

Bangkok, Thailand - Climate change is severely affecting agriculture globally. In Southeast Asia, where more than 100 million smallholder farmers depend on farming for their livelihoods, rising temperatures, extreme weather, and shifting rainfall patterns threaten food security. The situation emphasizes the need for regional cooperation and increased climate finance for agrifood systems transformation.According to the FAO, while climate-related finance reached USD 130 billion in 2022, only USD 29 billion or 23 percent was allocated to agrifood systems, a decline from 37 percent in 2000-2010. This underscores the critical need for greater investment in climate-resilient agriculture. It is estimated that smallholder financing needs in Southeast Asia amount to USD 100 billion annually, yet current financial flows meet less than a third of this demand.FAO and partners prioritize climate-smart agriculture initiativesThe Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with key partners, has been promoting climate-smart agriculture initiatives to enhance productivity, build resilience, and reduce emissions. These initiatives focus on managing farms, crops, livestock, aquaculture, and fisheries; conserving ecosystem services; providing support to help farmers manage climate risks; and improving the food system through demand-side measures and value chain interventions. Together, these efforts help farmers adapt to climate change while promoting sustainability in agriculture.With the support from the Green Climate Fund, countries are developing new innovative projects, including climate-resilient fisheries and aquaculture in Cambodia and the Philippines, sustainable low-emission rice production in Malaysia and Viet Nam, and climate-smart agriculture projects in Lao People's Democratic Republic and Thailand."Meeting ambitious climate action targets through climate-smart agriculture requires resources beyond what any single entity can provide," noted Robert Simpson, FAO Deputy Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific, at the 10th Anniversary of ASEAN Climate Resilience Network (ASEAN-CRN). He added, that "Success depends on continued partnerships, knowledge sharing, and mutual support among all stakeholders in Southeast Asia."A decade of enhanced regional cooperation for sustainable agricultureFAO has been spearheading regional cooperation in climate-smart agriculture by supporting knowledge exchange platforms and partnerships. At a regional gathering this week, marking ten years of climate cooperation, the ASEAN-CRN Members and partners highlighted shared priorities for advancing climate-smart technologies, expanding capacity-building initiatives, facilitating greater access to climate finance, and enhancing regional coordination for climate action. “This network stands as a testament to what we can achieve through committed regional cooperation and FAO is proud to have been a part of this effort”, noted FAO’s Robert Simpson.FAO is committed to supporting these efforts and the ASEAN-CRN as part of its shared vision for sustainable agrifood systems transformation. In line with the FAO Strategy on Climate Change 2022-2031, this partnership works towards better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life - leaving no one behind., filtered_html

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Press Release

24 January 2025

UN Human Rights Office welcomes enactment of historic marriage equality law in Thailand, legalising marriage between same-sex couples

BANGKOK (23 January 2025) – The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) for South-East Asia welcomes the entry into force of Thailand’s historic Marriage Equality Act, which provides equal recognition of marriage for same-sex couples and paves the way for greater equality and inclusivity where all people can enjoy equal rights to marry regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation.The new law, which officially came into effect on 23 January 2025, ensures that all couples, regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation, have equal access to marriage and legal recognition, and benefits. This includes equal treatment in the context of medical care, property, inheritance, taxation and adoption of children, among others.“This is a momentous achievement for Thailand and the LGBTIQ+ community, following over a decade of advocacy and tireless efforts from LGBTIQ+ activists, human rights defenders and civil society organizations to create a more inclusive and equal society in Thailand, where people can marry who they love no matter who they are,” said Katia Chirizzi, Officer in Charge of the UN Human Rights Office for South-East Asia. “It sets a positive example of leadership within the ASEAN and wider region.”While this new legislation represents a significant step forward, LGBTIQ+ individuals in Thailand continue to face discrimination and social stigma in many areas, including employment, education, and healthcare. Same-sex couples also encounter barriers, including in the context of other legislation relating to parenting. It is crucial to continue the work to ensure full equality in practice."We encourage the Government of Thailand to effectively implement the new law and further advance gender equality and inclusion by ensuring legal protection against discrimination, including through the passage of the Anti-Discrimination Bill and the Gender Recognition Bill,” Chirizzi said. “These steps are key to foster a society where diversity is celebrated, and everyone can live with dignity and free from discrimination.”The Marriage Equality Act also raises the legal age of marriage to eighteen from seventeen, aligning the minimum legal age for marriage with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which Thailand has been a State party since 1992., filtered_html

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Press Release

16 December 2024

United Nations Network on Migration Launches the Thailand Migration Report 2024

‎ Download the Thailand Migration Report 202413 December, Bangkok – Migration remains a cornerstone of Thailand’s socio-economic development, offering immense opportunities and potential when well-managed and when the rights of migrants are protected, according to the latest Thailand Migration Report launched today by the United Nations Network on Migration in Thailand.Now in its sixth edition, the report, (the previous edition was published in 2019) is a joint UN inter-agency publication produced by members of the UN Network on Migration in Thailand.The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted nature of migration, policies and the lived realities of migrants in Thailand.As a hub for intraregional migration and main destination country in Southeast Asia, Thailand hosts at least 5.3 million non-Thai nationals, marking an 8 per cent increase compared to nearly 4.9 million non-Thai population as indicated in the last report. Thailand is also a transit country for migrant workers, refugees and asylum seekers, and trafficked persons as well as an origin country deploying Thai workers across the region and beyond.The report delves into the state of migration through 11 chapters that revolve around four central themes of leaving no one behind, working conditions of migrants, human rights and access to justice, and expanding social protection and health care. Each chapter, written collaboratively by nine UN agencies, includes updates on migration-related policies and legislative frameworks, details the current situation for migrants, and makes recommendations for evidence-based policy and programmatic changes that promote inclusivity and protection for all migrants.“This report offers a comprehensive stock take of the opportunities that migrants bring and the challenges they face. It allows us to unpack the crucial role that Thailand plays as a Champion Country of the Global Compact for Migration,” says Michaela Friberg-Storey, the UN Resident Coordinator in Thailand.Labour migration from neighbouring countries, particularly Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Myanmar, remains a significant driver of Thailand’s economic growth, spurred by the country’s improved infrastructure and opportunities. This was highlighted by over 2.3 million regular migrant workers from these neighbouring countries registered in Thailand.However, many migrant workers continue to face challenges such as low wages, poor working conditions and limited access to social protection. Highlighting how migrants, particularly those in irregular situations, are at heightened risk of the precarious working and living conditions, the report calls for better legal and social protections.“With the conflict in Myanmar intensifying, mobility flows toward Thailand, the need for comprehensive policies that address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of migrants has never been more urgent,” emphasizes Géraldine Ansart, Chief of Mission at IOM Thailand and Coordinator of the UNMN in Thailand. “Expanding regular pathways to ensure all migrants are able to register, work decently and have access to basic services until they return home is [not only] critical for respecting Thailand’s commitments toward the protection of migrants but also a key sustainable development strategy for the country.”The report delves into the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability in neighbouring countries on migration dynamics and patterns in Thailand. While border closures, economic downturns and restricted movement disrupted the livelihoods of millions of migrants, the political instability has led to a surge in migrants entering through irregular channels, exacerbating humanitarian and development challenges. Compared to estimates in 2019 Thailand Migration Report, the number of Myanmar migrants in irregular situations has doubled to 1.8 million. This figure likely somewhat underestimates the actual increase, given the hidden nature of irregularity and difficulty to estimate numbers of migrants from countries other than Myanmar. “We hope that this report provides much needed evidence on longstanding trends and emerging challenges on migration and opportunities it brings for sustainable development,” adds Ms Ansart.With just over half a decade remaining until the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, it is critical to harness migration as a driver for achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The promise of migration can only be fully realized through strengthened partnerships and collaboration between all stakeholders to translate policy commitments into right-based migration governance framework and systems that benefit both migrants and society as a whole.The Thailand Migration Report 2024 is a publication jointly produced by members of the UN Network on Migration, namely: IOM, ILO, OHCHR, UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, UNODC, UN Women and WHO, with thanks to Sally Barber and Dr. Rosalia Sciortino for leading the coordination and editing of the report., filtered_html

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Press Release

03 December 2024

Vice Minister welcomed and had a discussion with Ms. Michaela Friberg-Storey, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Thailand

On 27 November 2024, H.E. Mr. Russ Jalichandra, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, welcomed and had a discussion with Ms. Michaela Friberg-Storey, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Thailand, on the occasion of her presentation of the letter of credence. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to promoting closer cooperation between Thailand and the UN in driving forward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in line with Thailand's national context and for the benefits of the Thai people.

The UN Resident Coordinator commended Thailand's notable progress on achieving the SDGs, which include the promotion of diversity and gender equality, raising awareness on SDGs through active participation of private sectors, academics and youths, including the strong commitment from the government to drive the sustainable development agenda at all levels. She also reaffirmed the readiness of the UN Country Team in Thailand to support Thailand’s journey towards the SDGs, as well as to support Thailand’s exemplary role in the international arena.

In addition, the Vice Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to drive forward the sustainable development policy and agenda through inclusive participation. He also reaffirmed the government’s readiness to cooperate closely with the UN Resident Coordinator and the UN Country Team in Thailand to drive forward government’s priorities such as providing humanitarian assistance to Myanmar, Thailand’s accession to the OECD and strengthening the multilateral system, as well as preparing a new sustainable development cooperation framework between the UN and Thailand that aligns with the country’s interests and key priorities. ———————-Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, filtered_html

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Press Release

25 November 2024

Hundreds of cyclists ride in Bangkok to launch the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence

The event, titled A Safe Journey with Her, begins at the Embassy of the Netherlands, travelling through the United Nations building in Ratchadamnoen, before concluding at the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Town Square. Organized for the third consecutive year, the cycling tour symbolizes the collective journey toward ending violence against women and girls, an issue that continues to affect millions globally.The 16 Days of Activism campaign runs annually from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day. This year’s theme, “Towards 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women,” calls for increased accountability, stronger national strategies, and enhanced support for women’s rights organizations ahead of the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.This event is the result of a collaboration between the embassies of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg; the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA); the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS); UN Women; and UNFPA, with support from Café Velodome and the Bangkok Urban Cycling Alliance. Speaking on behalf of the Benelux embassies (Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg), H.E. Remco van Wijngaarden, Dutch Ambassador in Bangkok, says, “Our role as a diplomatic community and as citizens of the world is to advocate for strong(er) laws, for services that support survivors, and for policies that hold perpetrators accountable. Today, we show our solidarity not only through our words but through our actions. We affirm our commitment to ending violence against women and girls and to building societies where every individual can live free from fear.”This event is perfectly situated in Bangkok, a central hub of the city, with the collaboration of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, making it an ideal location to create greater awareness. The event is more than just a campaign to empower and increase understanding about gender-based violence; it’s also an opportunity to celebrate everyone’s collective efforts and enjoy this moment together, all while working to build a society free from violence against women and children, and to make Bangkok a safer and more livable place for everyone.“The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is unwavering in its commitment to advancing gender equality and ending all forms of violence against women, children, and families. We have strengthened laws and policies to protect rights and worked to transform societal attitudes toward a more inclusive vision of gender equality,” says Mr. Anukul Peedkaew, Permanent Secretary of MSDHS. “By raising awareness among people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds, we ensure equal access to rights and liberties, with a focus on respecting human dignity and bodily autonomy. Let us stand united in the principle to ‘not act, not ignore, and not accept’ all forms of violence in our society—because a safe and equitable future starts with us,” he concluded. “As we approach the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the 16 Days of Activism reminds us that violence against women and girls is not inevitable—it is preventable,” says Christine Arab, UN Women Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific and Country Representative for Thailand. “Today’s cycling event in Bangkok symbolizes the collective journey we must take as governments, communities, and individuals to ensure that every woman and girl can live a life free from fear and violence. Together, let us accelerate our efforts, strengthen partnerships, and make the promise of Beijing a reality for all,” she adds.Pio Smith, UNFPA’s Regional Director for Asia-Pacific, highlights that with the rapid digital advancements in the region, online spaces have also become unsafe for women and girls. “The internet offers unprecedented opportunities for connection, education, and economic participation. Yet, it also brings with it a darker side: technology-facilitated gender-based violence. No woman or girl should face any form of violence – online or offline – under any circumstance. Her safety is not negotiable, and her dignity is not a debate. We must speak louder, we must stand up, and we will continue to stand with her to build a safe, inclusive, and equitable world.” Siriluck Chiengwong, Head of Office at UNFPA Thailand, states: “Violence against women and girls is preventable, and we now have strong evidence about what works. Comprehensive, well-funded, whole-of-society approaches, including primary prevention and survivor-centered assistance, are key. To achieve effective prevention and response, robust and up-to-date data is essential to inform evidence-based interventions and allocate resources strategically.”In addition to the cycling tour, participants enjoy an open-air screening of Children of the Mist, a poignant film addressing gender-based violence, at Lan Khon Mueang. The screening, introduced by the film's producer, is followed by refreshments and an informal platform for dialogue on current priorities to address violence against women. The event engages around 500 participants, including 250 cyclists.As the world commemorates the 16 Days of Activism, numerous events take place across Asia, the Pacific, and globally to raise awareness and mobilize action. The cycling event in Bangkok is just one of many activities aimed at amplifying the global message: that violence against women is preventable and must be eradicated.See photos from the event: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBSSqtFor more information about the event or to register for the cycling tour, visit https://asiapacific.unwomen.org/en/news-and-events/events/2024/11/a-safe-journey-with-her-16-days-of-activism-against-gender-based-violence-2024Media contact:Katie Elles, UNFPA elles [@] unfpa.org
Diego De La Rosa, UN Women Diego.delarosa [@] unwomen.org, filtered_html

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