UPR of Thailand: Concerns over handling of migrant workers and situation in the south of the country

On 5 October 2011, the Working Group on the UPR examined the human rights situation in Thailand. The delegation was led by Mr Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Special Envoy of the Royal Thai Government, and Ambassador to the UN in Geneva.

In his introductory statement Mr Phuangketkeow stated that Thailand’s human rights record is one of the strongest in the region but that the situation for vulnerable groups, especially migrant workers and their families, needed further improvement. This view was shared by a number of countries, particularly those from the same region. States suggested that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) should make increased efforts in this regard, and that Thailand should cooperate further with its neighbours to improve the situation.

The dialogue largely focused on issues such as the situation of vulnerable groups, the ongoing security issues in the south of the country, and alleged restrictions on freedom of expression.