On 25 July, World Drowning Prevention Day, the government invites all sectors to join a campaign aiming to reduce drowning deaths by 35% by 2035 in line with global targets.
On 25 July 2026, Ms. Ploytale Laksameesaengchan, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, announced that on World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on 25 July, the government prioritizes addressing drowning, a significant public health issue globally and nationally. According to the World Health Organization's drowning prevention report, approximately 300,000 people die from drowning worldwide each year, with over half occurring in the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia regions. In Thailand, over the past 10 years (2016-2025), an average of 3,748 people have died annually from drowning, more than 10 people daily. The highest death rate is among those aged 60 and over, at 8.2 per 100,000 population, followed by the 45-59 age group at 7.2 per 100,000, and those under 15 years old at 5.8 per 100,000.
Ms. Ploytale said that although Thailand has reduced drowning deaths among children by over 50%, gaining international recognition with the World Health Organization publishing Thailand's experience as a case study on the 2026 World Drowning Prevention Day website, drowning prevention remains a critical challenge requiring serious cooperation from all sectors. The goal is to create a safe Thai society free from drowning fatalities sustainably.
“The government invites public agencies, private sectors, and all organizations to unite in demonstrating cooperation for drowning prevention on World Drowning Prevention Day. This year, the World Health Organization’s campaign theme is “Unite to Turn the Tide,” under the concept “Know Your Part – Everyone Has a Role in Drowning Prevention.” This aligns with Thailand’s approach and the global strategy aiming to reduce drowning death rates worldwide by 35% by 2035. Thailand has set a target to reduce drowning deaths to no more than 2,095 by the same year.”