To mark Human Rights Day 2022, which takes place annually on 10 December, the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Thailand partnered with the Rights and Liberties Protection Department (RLPD) of the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), organised free public screenings of documentary films from 9 to 12 December, under the theme ‘Our Right to Live on a Healthy Planet’.
The event was held in collaboration with Documentary Club, House Samyan and Environman to present selected films produced by Thai and European directors that illustrate the links between human rights and the environment. They further highlighted the need to ensure environmental protection in industries and business practices, aiming at increasing awareness and enhancing the EU-Thai partnership in contributing to the right to a healthy environment.
The opening ceremony, attended by over 100 members of the public, environmental rights defenders, Government representatives and diplomats, was held on 9 December at Theatre 4 of House Samyan in Bangkok, In celebration of the UN General Assembly’s (UNGA) recognition of the right to a healthy environment.
In his opening remarks, H.E. Mr. David Daly, Ambassador of the European Union to Thailand, said, “We have human rights, not because we are European or Asian; we have them simply because we are humans. Furthermore, human rights are indivisible; human rights are all equally important and equally necessary to protect human dignity. Without respect for human rights, sustainable peace and stability, long-term development and prosperity cannot exist.”
The ceremony was followed by a screening of the 2022 film Blood on the River: Special Edition. Directed by Thai filmmaker Theerayut Weerakham, the film explores the impact of infrastructure projects on the Mekong’s rich biodiversity and local livelihoods.
Free screenings of three additional environmental documentaries were alsoheld at Theatre 4, House Samyan from 10 to 12 December, including Losing Alaska (Ireland), By the River (Thailand)., and Thank You for the Rain (Norway)
“We believe this event is an excellent opportunity for the European Union and the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning to work together toward our common goals. We are ready to be good partners, to form a strong alliance, and to cooperate fully to ensure that all Thai people have the rights to live on a healthy planet,” said Mr. Jiravat Ratisoontorn, Deputy Secretary-General of ONEP.
The EU and Thailand have made significant progress in strengthening the environmental aspect of human rights protection. The EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy (2020-2024) outlines the commitment to address the risks and impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss on human rights, while Thailand’s 4th National Human Rights Plan (2019-2023) announced its commitment to preserve the environment and protect people’s health from environmental impacts.
Mr. Kerdchoke Kasemwongjit, Deputy Director-General of the RLPD, stated “Human rights and the environment are fully interconnected. Human rights cannot flourish if nature is not cared for.”
