Page 152 - Dignity and justice for all of us our voices are heard in Thailand

“Torture and ill 2. Effective protection of human rights and respect of human security issues – Comments

treatment are and reflections collected during the workshops in the provinces, as well as reported in this
publication’s articles, hint at the current global dilemma between the need to address security
prohibited by Thai concerns and the effective protection of human rights. In this regard, one of the main concerns

law. There is still a relates to the situation in the three southern border provinces of Thailand. Reflections from
various groups indicate that the adoption of special measures, such as emergency laws and
need, however, to security laws and their implementation, creates a situation in which the rights of citizens have
develop the become vulnerable. The voices and comments collected through interviews and during the

various systems to consultative workshops express the need to establish a balance between the concern for
security and the protection of rights. Effective and intelligent law enforcement responses are
protect the rights called for. The ratification of the Convention against Torture (CAT) is recognized as a positive
of the detainees in step by Thailand in endorsing the absolute ban on torture, a cornerstone of the international

practice and to human rights edifice. The current efforts to promote its effective implementation would provide
an important framework of action. The recommended forward-looking actions include the
ensure full ratification of the Optional Protocol to CAT and the ratification of the International Convention
enjoyment of for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.

their rights.”

Mr. Nathee Chitsawang,
Director General,
Department of Corrections
Commenting on Article 5

“Without justice, 3. Legal and judicial process – Maintenance and strengthening of an effective system for law
enforcement and the administration of justice which conforms to and is progressively adequate
the wounds can for the increasing international human rights obligations of the country is critical to Thailand. It
never heal.” is essential that this justice system is accessible to all people, especially people from the most
marginalized and disadvantaged sectors of society. Taking this into account, it is recommended
Mrs. Angkhana Neelapaijit through the voices gathered that a number of laws, as well as regulations, procedures and
Chairperson of the Working Group
on Justice for Peace provisions in administering them, need to be systematically reviewed in line with the principles
Commenting on Article 8 of human rights. Supportive provisions, such as volunteer lawyers and consultants for under-
privileged and vulnerable groups, should also be further improved to enhance their capacities
in the process of justice. According to the present Constitution, an organization for legal review
and reform is to be set up soon with an emphasis on the participation of the people affected by
each particular set of laws.
140 Dignity and Justice for All of Us