The Working Group on Discrimination Against Women and Girls will conduct its first country visit to Thailand from December 2 to 13, according to the United Nations Human Rights Council.
The independent experts will assess progress and challenges in achieving gender equality and eliminating discrimination. The experts will examine various aspects of the lives of women and girls, particularly those who encounter multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.
The Thai government has invited the WG to visit Thailand and will hold discussions in Bangkok, Mae Sot, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai. The UB experts will meet with national and local authorities, women and girls, civil society organizations, UN entities and other relevant stakeholders.
The visiting delegation will include Haina Lu and Ivana Krstić, members of the Working Group.
In October, Thailand won a seat in the United Nations Human Rights Council. Thailand has been campaigning on themes that promote dialogue among UNHRC members and improve their capacity to protect rights and freedoms.
In May, Thailand faced scrutiny during the Universal Periodic Review by the UNHRC in Geneva for its handling of gender-based violence and trafficking. Recommendations were made that efforts to advance women's rights in the country must be done systematically.
They would include enforcement of legal protections, cultural stigmas, and economic inequalities. Furthermore, greater political representation, robust social safety nets, and education campaigns can contribute to more equitable treatment of women.
With Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra elected as the country's leader, it offers potential for advancing women's rights through policy.
The Working Group will present its full report to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2025.
