Statement by the Delegation of Thailand

by Mr. Phanpob Plangprayoon

Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative

at the Review of New Zealand

during the 32^nd Session of the Working Group on the UPR

on Monday, 21 January 2019, 09:00-12:30 hrs.

Mr. President,

Thailand welcomes the delegation of New Zealand to the UPR. We commend New Zealand for identifying in its report specific areas that require strengthened implementation. Such an approach reinforces the UPR as an effective tool for policy review and an opportunity for self-assessment.

Thailand congratulates New Zealand on the development of the interactive online National Plan of Action for the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights.

Thailand commends the establishment of the Ministry for Children and the work of the International Human Rights Governance Group.

Thailand welcomes the amendments to the Family Violence and Whanau Bill, the plans to close the gender pay gap particularly in the public service, the development of the Migrant Settlement and Integration Strategy, and the efforts to reduce economic and social inequalities faced by Maori, especially with regard to the persistent disparities in health outcomes.

Thailand recommends the following for New Zealand’s consideration:

First, enhance its support to migrants by continuing to combat and deter the exploitation of migrant workers and promote their full participation and contribution in the society.

Second, promote the role of its private sector by developing and adopting a national action plan to implement the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

We wish New Zealand every success in this UPR.

Thank you.