Page 153 - Dignity and justice for all of us our voices are heard in Thailand

4. Progressive realization of economic, social and cultural rights: attention to the most ” I was the only
marginalized – The advancement of the civil rights and liberties of the Thai people has been
more evident in recent years, including the availability of better opportunities and more access one in the
to economic, social and cultural provisions. For example, there has been much progress in the classroom with no
promotion of educational opportunities and healthcare for all. Yet the situation with regards to
minority groups, migrants, asylum seekers, and stateless persons indicates some space for Thai identification
improvement. This is particularly relevant with regard to the need to adopt affirmative actions card. Sometimes
to ensure the enjoyment of the rights of persons with disabilities and people who are most I felt very sad and
vulnerable to human rights abuses, such as under-privileged women, persons living with HIV,
migrant workers and children. These are among the areas in which the voices and depressed for not
commentators perceive that specific improvements are highly necessary. The recent ratification being awarded a
of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities represents Thailand’s
commitment to shift the paradigm of addressing the challenges being faced by persons with scholarship.”
disabilities from a matter of charity to a matter of rights. Consideration should also be given to
the possibility of ratifying the International Convention of the Rights of Migrant Workers and Two orphan girls, age 16
Members of their Families and acceding to the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 1967 Protocol. Chiang Rai province
Voices from Article 15
Such actions would represent further progress for Thailand in its adherence to the highest
international standards.

5. A leading role in the promotion of human rights – Thailand’s role in supporting the “Every country
establishment of a human rights body at the regional level is commended. Thailand continues
to play an active role in promoting human rights among southeast Asian nations. Furthermore, should view
it could and should become a role model for other countries in the region for its promotion of human rights as
human rights education among government officials, the private sector, civil society
organizations and the general public alike as a means to develop further cultural conditions something that
conducive to the realization of dignity and justice for all. This promotion of human rights should be
education will gradually help to reduce the discriminatory attitudes and stigma that often preserved for the
characterize the relationship between state agencies and ordinary people, as well as among
people themselves. Human rights education will also promote the respect for and protection of benefit of its
human rights defenders, an issue that requires solid structures in the region. Human rights people.”
advocacy relies heavily on the work of the media and communicators. Since Thailand is a major
regional hub for the media, its potential should be maximized to increase human rights
awareness throughout the region. Success in this area would naturally depend heavily on Mr. Tej Bunnag
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs
freedoms of expression and opinion.

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