On 8 September 2020, UNDP Thailand convened a Consultative Meeting on UNDP’s support on Business and Human Rights (B+HR) in Thailand in Bangkok. UNDP Thailand presented key areas of support under B+HR project for 2020 and beyond, and explored opportunities on potential collaboration and partnership with stakeholders on business and human rights.

At the event, there was a rich discussion among the participants on the proposed interventions and included a strong focus on supporting the Thai government and businesses to transform their commitment on Protect, Respect, Remedy framework under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs).

Speaking at the event, Dr. Netithorn Praditsarn, Deputy Secretary General, Global Compact Network Thailand said, “To drive the implementation of the UNGPs, it is important for major companies to take the lead as a role model and send positive signal for small and medium sized companies to undertake their responsibility on respect human rights in accordance with the UNGPs.”

The Canadian Ambassador to Thailand, Her Excellency Sarah Taylor concurred, adding that, “Responsible business practices also affect positively in creating positive environment foreign investment in Thailand.”

Renaud Meyer, Resident Representative, UNDP Thailand said, “The adoption of the NAP is an important milestone and is only the appetizer - it is now time for the meal. The partnership between government and private sector for SDG17 will be very important to drive the business and human rights agenda forward together in Thailand.”

The meeting was attended by 50 in-person and 30 online participants from government agencies, diplomatic corps, UN agencies, business associations and civil society organizations. UNDP’s Business and Human Rights project is supported by the European Union.