Worldwide expressions of condolence have poured in following the death of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati, who passed away on Thursday after spending more than three years in a coma.
Royal families, foreign governments, diplomatic missions and international organisations have paid tribute to the Princess, remembering her lifelong dedication to public service, diplomacy, justice and the welfare of vulnerable people.
Among the first to express their condolences were Their Majesties King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan, who said they were deeply saddened by the Princess's passing.
They praised service of the princess, the eldest child of HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn, to Thailand and her work in advancing justice, supporting women and children and serving in the Royal Thai Armed Forces.
"Her dedication to public service earned her widespread respect and admiration," the Bhutanese royal couple said, extending their sympathies to King Maha Vajiralongkorn, the Royal Family and the people of Thailand.
Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihamoni also sent a message of condolence to King Vajiralongkorn, describing the Princess's passing as a profound loss. He said her legacy of service will remain a source of inspiration and strength to all who mourn her.
The United States joined in mourning the Princess. In a statement, US Ambassador Sean O'Neill offered condolences on behalf of the American people, saying that the United States stands with its “great friends, the people of the Kingdom of Thailand” during a sombre period.
Messages of sympathy were also issued by the embassies of Argentina, Australia, India, Indonesia and the Nordic countries in Thailand.
Many highlighted the Princess's contributions to diplomacy, public service and the rule of law, as well as her enduring impact on Thai society.
International organisations likewise paid tribute to the Princess's humanitarian and legal advocacy work.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) expressed profound sadness at her passing, noting her commitment to improving the lives and opportunities of vulnerable people, particularly women and children.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) praised the Princess's longstanding efforts to promote justice and the rule of law.
The agency highlighted her role in advancing the ‘Bangkok Rules’, the United Nations standards for the treatment of female prisoners and non-custodial measures for female offenders, describing the initiative as a lasting legacy that has benefited women around the world.
UNODC also noted her service as its Goodwill Ambassador for the Rule of Law in Southeast Asia, saying her advocacy extended beyond Thailand and inspired people throughout the region.
