Page 109 - Dignity and justice for all of us our voices are heard in Thailand

Article 21

Ms. Panyasen describes the many challenges that serve as barriers to the higher representation of
local people in local politics. National politics often overshadows local politics, leading to the
neglect of local interests. Positive achievements include the Decentralization Law, by which local
government units (tambons) are empowered to determine their own future through the formation
of Tambon Administrative Organizations. As the Chairperson of the Pichai Tambon Administrative
Organization, she feels this is very important. In her community, people forced the closure of a
factory for 15 days because the factory was polluting the community’s water supply. She says the
community had realized that it could not solely depend on the authorities to act, but that people
must join together to form a strong community that looks after its own rights.

On the occasion of the 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Ms.
Panyasen would like to ask the government to serve as a role model in respecting its people. She
would like to see true political will to promote people’s authority, allowing local authorities to
exercise their rights according to the principles of democracy. The government should be able to
admit its own failures in regulating local authorities, she feels. She adds that there is also a need for
a justice system that can effectively monitor the use of government power.

Ms. Panyasen is proof that women can attain government positions and make a difference in local
politics. However, important challenges and obstacles still exist. Women have traditionally been
deprived of many of their rights, impeding equal participation in politics. Measures must be taken
by the authorities to promote women’s participation in politics and to grant them the same
opportunities as men.

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