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Writer's pictureManushya Foundation
May 19, 2023

Thai authorities must officially recognize the existence of Indigenous Peoples in the country!



#WorldDayforCulturalDiversityforDialogueandDevelopment 🌐🤝 On this special day, Manushya Foundation reiterates its call for the Thai government to officially recognize the existence of Indigenous Peoples in Thailand! This recognition is crucial for Thailand to genuinely embrace and celebrate its diverse heritage!


🚨 Although Thailand adopted the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, it does not officially recognize the existence of Indigenous Peoples in the country. As a result, they are deprived of their fundamental rights, and face inequality and injustice.


👉 Due to the lack of recognition of their land rights, Indigenous Peoples face land grabbing by the government and are evicted from their ancestral lands! Consequently, they are unable to sustain their lives, as their livelihoods depend on nature.


👉 In the name of “forest conservation policies”, the Thai authorities unlawfully charge Indigenous Peoples with forest encroachment and evict them from their homes, as has been the case for Karen indigenous community members of Bang Kloi. On Koh Lipe Island, the government blatantly allows the grabbing of the Chao Lay Indigenous Peoples’ ancestral land by the tourism sector.


👉 Indigenous Peoples in Thailand are the most vulnerable groups to killings and disappearances. Porlajee “Billy” Rakchongcharoen, a Karen community leader, stood up against this injustice to protect his community. For speaking Truth to Power, he was forcibly disappeared in 2014 and paid the price with his own life.


#WeAreManushyan ♾ Equal Human Beings


✊ Manushya Foundation urges Thailand to officially recognize the existence of Indigenous Peoples in the country, and to acknowledge them as Guardians of the Forest! Thailand must put an end to the invisibilities of Indigenous Peoples and must respect their fundamental rights!


🌱♻️ Their traditional ways of living are sustainable and help preserve the environment. If the Thai government is ever to make genuine efforts to tackle climate change effectively, it must listen to Indigenous Peoples’ voices and take their wisdom and expertise in nature as an example. Additionally, the Thai authorities must put them at the center of the decision-making process of climate change mitigation policies now! They are key actors in tackling the climate crisis!


💫 On this World Day for Cultural Diversity, we pay tribute to the vibrant heritage and traditions that thrive within Indigenous Peoples. Let's appreciate the unique traditions, customs, and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples, that make Thailand and the World a vibrant tapestry. By engaging in open dialogue and embracing diverse perspectives, we can foster understanding and create a more inclusive society. Join us as we promote diversity, inclusivity, understanding, and respect for all cultures!


While you’re here…

➡️ Learn more about Manushya Foundation’s advocacy and achievements for Indigenous Peoles’ and grassroots communities’ rights, and for a just energy transition:


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