Thailand Attaches Great Importance to Education for Democracy

(26/09/2011)

Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul has stated that Thailand placed great importance on education for democracy as a significant tool in empowering the people to build a strong foundation for genuine democratic development. In his intervention at the meeting of the United Nations Democracy Caucus, held in New York on 23 September 2011, the Foreign Minister pointed out that Thailand is eager to learn from the experiences of countries in the Community of Democracies of what constitutes good education for democracy. He said that the year 2011 had seen democracy ideals in action in many parts of the world. The Arab Spring once again stresses the underlying principle of democracy, which is to uphold the aspirations and needs of the people. The events in the Middle East and Africa also show that in fulfilling their mandate, governments must listen to the needs of the people in the pursuit of peace, development and prosperity of the nation. In the case of Thailand, Mr. Surapong said that the general election, held on 3 July 2011, shows once again the resilience of Thai democracy. “The voter turnout was the highest in Thailand’s electoral history. With a seamless transition in the democratic process as the result of the solid mandate of the people, the new government is now firmly in place. We are resolutely working to implement the people-centered policies, which aim at bringing about sustainable growth, with quality and social justice based on the rule of law. With that mandate, I am pleased to represent Thailand among members of the UN Democracy Caucus this year.” He also said, “In Thailand, a number of people still tend to think that democracy is just about going to the ballot box. But as we all know, democracy is an evolution in itself. Various other factors are needed for democracy to be strengthened, nurtured and maintained. These include the good functioning of democratic institutions, the rule of law, respect for human rights and a strong civil society. The challenge is how to educate people to understand this whole democratic process.” The Foreign Minister reiterated Thailand’s willingness and readiness to cooperate with the Community of Democracies in advancing the cause of democracy.