Statement by the Delegation of Thailand
during the Annual Discussion on the Integration of a Gender Perspective
throughout the work of the HRC and that of its mechanisms
Theme: “The UPR and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development:
Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”
at the 36th Session of the Human Rights Council
on Friday, 15 September 2017, 09.00 – 12.00 hrs, Room XX
Mr. President,
Thailand thanks all distinguished panelists for their views.
Firstly, Thailand underscores that human rights obligations and the Sustainable Development Goals are mutually reinforcing and complementary.We believe that eliminating discrimination against women and promoting the rights of women are key to fostering socio-economic growth and sustainable development. UPR and CEDAW processes are thus good entry points for promoting and mainstreaming a gender perspective throughout the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
Secondly, UPR recommendations can be used as a catalyst for stronger domestic legislation and important policies that will advance women’s empowerment and gender equality. States, when making their UPR recommendations, are encouraged to consider the positive impacts of their recommendations on the gender-responsive implementation of the 2030
Agenda.
Thirdly, Thailand attaches importance to the sharing of best practices, technical cooperation and capacity-building, as well as multi-stakeholder engagement in the above processes. While Thailand has taken a number of steps to fulfill our commitments in the UPR and SDGs, we are willing to share positive examples. Our current Constitution calls for gender-responsive budgeting, with a pilot project being implemented. Elements of SDG 5 are being incorporated in the Women Development Strategy 2017–2021. We have also taken steps to develop a gender-disaggregated database and, in education, ensure that girls and boys enjoy equal access to basic education.
Fourthly, Thailand has placed an emphasis on women’s economic empowerment. HRC and its mechanisms including UPR can serve as a platform to discuss the potentials and increasing role of women in the workforce and the economy. The Thai Government has strengthened relevant legislations to promote equal economic rights and opportunities. Females are now accounted for 60 per cent of the workforce and hold a handsome share of 38 per cent of management positions in the private sector.
Thank you.