Thailand

Bangkok announces its intent to become a Human Rights City

On 28 August 2025 at Bangkok City Hall, Governor of Bangkok Chatchart Sitthipunt declared Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s intent to drive Bangkok towards becoming a full “Human Rights City.” Attended by more than 100 people from BMA, partner organizations, and international representatives, the event marks another milestone in BMA’s efforts to advance the principles of Human Rights in its policies and to uplift the quality of life for all Bangkok residents.

FNF Thailand and Thailand’s National Human Rights Commissioner (NHRCT) have been supporting BMA since the start of this initiative. Bangkok began its journey towards becoming a Human Rights City in 2024. Since then, FNF Thailand and NHRCT have been working closely together with BMA in analyzing and promoting BMA’s policies aligned with Human Rights principles, paving way for the advancement of BMA works in multiple dimensions.

Bangkok’s flagship “9 guiding policies”, covering education, welfare, diversity, and participation – enhance and integrate Human Rights principles in BMA’s works. Under the guiding policies, BMA has made education more accessible to students with special needs, improved BMA buildings and footpaths in compliance with the Universal Design standards, and provided gender diverse health services in its clinics.

Starting this year, FNF Thailand and NHRCT have organized workshops for BMA to foster and strengthen human rights awareness among BMA officers. Over 100 officials have joined the sessions, equipping them with knowledge and practical tools to integrate Human Rights into their daily responsibilities.

“This is to ensure that everyone can live in the city with equality, be treated with respect and dignity, and have equal access to services and opportunities, leaving no one behind,” the governor Chatchart states.  

“We are glad and proud to have taken part in this initiative,” said Dr. Pimrapaat Dusadeeisariyakul, Program Manager of FNF Thailand, during her speech. “The declaration to become a Human Rights City is not just a goal, but a joint mission between government, people, and civil society.” Dr. Pimrapaat reaffirmed FNF Thailand’s continued support for Bangkok’s mission. The FNF established the principle of the “Human Rights City” in Thailand more than two years ago and has implemented it at the local level in cooperation with local universities, administrations, and the NHRC.

Looking ahead, BMA emphasized its commitment to working with people from all sectors to advance human rights initiatives. As Governor Chatchart concluded:

“BMA warmly invites everyone to join together in making Bangkok a Human Rights City!”

 

* Takdanai Ketkaew is Programme Assistant and Communication Officer at FNF Thailand