"Thailand: First official visit by UN expert group on business and human rights," 22 March 2018

The United Nations Working Group on business and human rights will undertake its first official visit to Thailand from 26 March to 4 April to examine efforts to prevent, mitigate and remedy adverse human rights impacts of business operations.

“Thailand is the second largest economy in Southeast Asia and an important player in sectors such as mining, agriculture, tourism, fisheries, palm oil, telecommunication, electronics, finance and energy,” said Dante Pesce, vice-chairperson of the Working Group.

“We look forward to learn more about ongoing work to develop a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, as part of efforts to ensure that companies operating in Thailand, as well as Thai companies operating abroad, respect human rights.”

“During our mission to Thailand we will meet with a wide range of stakeholders, including national and provincial government authorities, private and State-owned enterprises, business associations, civil society organisations, the National Human Rights Commission, trade unions, human rights defenders and members of local and indigenous communities,” said Surya Deva, the other member of the Working Group’s visiting delegation.

“We will give particular attention to the situations of individuals and groups that are particularly at risk to business-related human rights abuse,” he added.

Findings from the country visit and recommendations will be included in an official report to be presented to the Human Rights Council.