Thailand on 9 October 2024 was elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for the term 2025-2027, according to a press briefing by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 11 October.

Thailand had to compete with the Marshall Islands, Cyprus, Qatar, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia. It received the highest number of votes in the Asia-Pacific group, with 177 votes.

The ministry pointed out several factors for the success. For instance, Thailand announced its candidacy early and engaged in continuous vote exchanges, which included seeking and utilizing opportunities for cross-framework and pre-election vote exchanges.

Thailand has made significant human rights advancements over the past two years, despite some challenges, including the enactment of the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act B.E. 2565 (2022), the Amendment of the Civil and Commercial Code regarding of legalizing same-sex marriage (Marriage Equality Act), and the policy expansion of the Universal Health Coverage policy.

Besides, Thailand has clear branding as a bridge-builder among different member states, with attempts to seek solutions and build consensus, as well as Thailand’s progressive views on many issues, similar to those of developed countries, while also understanding the social, religious, and cultural contexts of developing countries.