BANGKOK — United Nations representatives praised Thailand’s progress on gender equality while highlighting key areas for improvement, particularly regarding sex worker rights and protection.
Haina Lu and Ivana Krstić, members of the UN Working Group on Discrimination against Women and Girls (WGDAWG), presented their preliminary findings following their first-ever official visit to Thailand from December 2-13. The visit, conducted at the invitation of the Thai government, included extensive field research across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Mae Sot, and Hat Yai.
“Thailand is at a crucial juncture to become a regional leader in gender equality,” Lu stated, highlighting the country’s recent legislative achievements, particularly the passage of the Marriage Equality Act. However, she emphasized the need for comprehensive training of government officials to ensure effective implementation of the new law.
The working group also praised Thailand’s cabinet for recently approving an expedited naturalization system that could benefit over one million displaced persons. The investigation revealed a strong connection between women’s rights issues and statelessness, prompting recommendations for further acceleration of the citizenship process.
Despite these positive developments, the UN representatives identified significant policy implementation gaps. They recommended increased financial and personnel support for national women’s rights mechanisms, noting that gender-responsive budgeting remains a constitutional commitment yet to be fully realized.
Addressing modern challenges, Krstić highlighted the role of technology in gender-based violence, particularly cyberbullying and harmful information disclosure. However, the most striking recommendation came regarding sex work.
“We strongly recommend that Thailand decriminalize sex work,” Krstić stated. “This would ensure fair access to health services for sex workers. Additionally, the government should implement integrated victim support services, though we’ve observed current centers are understaffed.”
The full report of their findings will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2025, following additional data collection through February 2025.
This official visit marks a significant step in evaluating Thailand’s progress on women’s rights and gender equality, while highlighting crucial areas requiring immediate attention and reform.
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