Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow on 20 January 2026 participated in a high-level Strategy Session titled “From Data to Collective Action Against Forced Labor” at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, Switzerland.

During his opening remarks, the Foreign Minister highlighted that forced labor has become an increasingly complex global challenge, exacerbated by the rapid pace of digitalization, migration flows, and the evolving nature of human trafficking. He proposed a comprehensive response anchored in four core principles: Prevention, Protection, Enforcement, and Partnership.

A key highlight of the Minister’s statement was the necessity of establishing "Data-driven Partnerships." He emphasized the importance of real-time data exchange across borders and sectors to enhance transparency and accountability. To illustrate Thailand’s commitment, he cited the country’s success in combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing through technological integration in supply chain management. This achievement has led to Thailand’s recent recognition as a model country successfully utilizing “Proof of Country” (POC) within the Global Data Partnership Against Forced Labor. 

The Foreign Minister also brought to the forum’s attention the urgent threat of cyber-scams and forced labor in online operations within Southeast Asia. He noted that these crimes pose a significant risk to both regional human security and the global economy, necessitating a strengthened collaborative framework between Thailand, the WEF, and international partner networks.

The Foreign Minister is participating in the WEF Annual Meeting 2026 as part of the Thai delegation, led by Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. The delegation also includes Mrs. Suphajee Suthumpun, Minister of Commerce.

Thailand’s participation in the WEF focuses on creating opportunities and building confidence. In this regard, the Foreign Minister will leverage the WEF Meeting to connect the Thai private sector with global business networks to expand cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, and future industries, such as smart agriculture, electric vehicles, medical services, and AI, alongside promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible investment.