The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati Kromluangrajasarinisiribajra Mahavajrarajadhita, who was appointed Goodwill Ambassador on the Rule of Law for Southeast Asia by UNODC in February 2017.

The statement on the passing of the Princess says, “Throughout her life, Her Royal Highness touched the lives of people around Thailand, including the most vulnerable. She took a profound interest in the wellbeing of people caught in the justice system, and became a champion for the rule of law and an effective criminal justice process which treats everyone with dignity. Her tireless efforts to advance international standards for the treatment of women prisoners and non-custodial measures for women offenders, also known as the ‘Bangkok Rules,’ created a lasting legacy benefitting generations of women around the world.

“As UNODC Goodwill Ambassador for the Rule of Law in Southeast Asia, she was an advocate for this cause not just in Thailand, but an inspiration for people across the region and beyond.”

UNODC appointed Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha as Goodwill Ambassador on the Rule of Law for Southeast Asia on 14 February 2017 to raise the profile of, and support for, development efforts that address the impact of crime on society, and that contribute to justice reform. Her Royal Highness had supported UNODC efforts in the region over recent years, increasing visibility and mobilizing partnerships, most recently promoting the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda. 

"Her Royal Highness brings tremendous commitment, dedication and energy to the essential work of delivering the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda," noted UNODC Executive Director Yury Fedotov as he commended Her Royal Highness for joining UNODC efforts to promote the rule of law. He went on to say, "She has invaluable experience that enables her to speak with authority on the need for effective, accountable and inclusive institutions. I have no doubt she will play a significant role in the region on UNODC's behalf."

Her Royal Highness remarked, "My appointment as a Goodwill Ambassador offers the opportunity to champion UN positions on the rule of law and fairness in criminal justice systems, and to help achieve the bold vision of the 2030 Agenda." The Princess added, "I look forward to working with the UNODC Southeast Asia team to reduce crime and violence, protect vulnerable groups and challenge corruption, while contributing to efforts to strengthen the rule of law."

Significant for UNODC in Southeast Asia, Princess Bajrakitiyabha helped organize the 2013 Bangkok Dialogue on the Rule of Law to promote justice, security, and the rule of law as necessary for sustainable development, and to build political momentum for the Post 2015 Development Agenda. Her Royal Highness also served as Ambassador of Thailand to the UN in Vienna, and participated in the UN General Assembly's Economic and Social Council's Commission on Narcotic Drugs and the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice where States debate global policies to address drug and crime.

As a Goodwill Ambassador, Her Royal Highness contributed to UNODC, with strategies to reform justice and advance the rule of law.