Amnesty International Thailand presented five human rights demands to Bangkok governor candidate Chatchat, who attended the event emphasizing the promotion of 437 bully-free Bangkok schools, care for special needs and vulnerable children, and stressed that street vendor regulation must not further burden the poor.
Amnesty International Thailand organized the event "Leaders’ Discourse on Human Rights" under the theme "Bangkok: A City That Leaves No One Behind" at the front plaza of the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC). The event provided a public space for citizens and the media to follow, exchange views, and question the policies of candidates for Bangkok governor in the critical final days before the election.
This event was held by Amnesty International Thailand in collaboration with civil society networks, aiming to promote human rights as a key issue in the local election and to emphasize that urban development must be based on principles of non-discrimination and leaving no one behind.
During the event, Chatchat Sitthiphan, the independent candidate for Bangkok governor, number 9, attended to observe, accompanied by Sanpiti Sitthiphan (Saendee), Tawida Kamolwetch, and the "Bangkok Works" team. He engaged in friendly conversations with participating citizens and youth.
Chatchat shared his vision on education and human rights, stating that every child has the right to receive quality and equal education. Therefore, Bangkok schools must be safe zones free from bullying and harassment, and promote joyful learning. He proposed establishing a system or platform for reporting rights violations, whether between students or between teachers and students, to enable timely problem resolution.
He also suggested developing psychological counseling services and upgrading all 437 Bangkok schools to be places that respect diversity, possess their own identity, and serve as foundations for equality. He emphasized that education is a fundamental right and a key tool for reducing inequality and poverty in the long term.
Regarding special needs children, Chatchat stated a policy to expand schools and care services for special needs children across all 50 districts, ensuring this group has access to education without discrimination, reducing family burdens, and making Bangkok schools truly schools for everyone.
On the "Bangkok for Rights, Bangkok for All" policy, Chatchat said the city must be designed to be livable for everyone, not just some. Elderly care policies must comprehensively address health, mental well-being, and daily living through welfare, vocational training, job placement, and social activities. The policy also embraces other vulnerable groups including people with disabilities, children, and sexual minorities.
During field visits, street vendor representatives reflected on the issue that numerous Bangkok regulations have reduced their livelihood opportunities. Chatchat listened attentively and emphasized that street vendor regulation must not worsen poverty but should help people earn a living through providing flexible spaces and fair management.
At the same occasion, Amnesty International Thailand presented five human rights agenda demands to Bangkok governor candidates as a framework for urban policy-making, including:
1. Protect public spaces so citizens can express opinions safely.
2. Facilitate peaceful assemblies.
3. Listen to the public before making policy decisions.
4. Ensure Bangkok services are accessible without discrimination.
5. Develop the city and manage the environment fairly.
Amnesty stressed that this Bangkok governor election is not merely a policy competition but a crucial opportunity to shape a city that respects human dignity and leaves no one behind.