On 19 November 2018, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) organised an event to celebrate Venerable Vudhijaya Vajiramedhi on the occasion of his appointment by UNHCR as “UNHCR Patron for Peace and Compassion” at the United Nations Convention Centre, Bangkok. The event was attended by Thai actress, Ms. Praya Lundberg in her capacity as UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, Mrs. Kanchana Patarachoke, Director-General of the Department of International Organizations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, Mr. Natapanu Nopakun, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Information of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pol. Lt. Col. Pongporn Pramsaneh, Director of the National Office of Buddhism, media and invited guests from various sectors in total of approximately 200 representatives.

         Mr. Guiseppe De Vincentiis, Representative of the UNHCR in Thailand, delivered his opening remarks by informing that this year, for the first time, the UNHCR conferred the title of UNHCR Patron to two renowned public figures. Venerable Vudhijaya Vajiramedhi was presented the title of UNHCR Patron for Peace and Compassion in recognition of his devotion to promote knowledge and understanding on assistance to refugees, which could be seen from the cooperation with the UNHCR during the past 2 years including a seminar on interfaith dialogue held in Chiang Rai Province in 2017, awareness raising activities, and various fund raising activities. Her Royal Highness Princess Sarah Zeid of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan was bestowed the title of UNHCR Patron for Maternal and Newborn Health.

         On this occasion, Director-General of the Department of International Organizations delivered a congratulatory remark on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand. She reaffirmed Thailand’s long tradition in providing humanitarian assistance to those in genuine need of protection and the government’s readiness to support the Venerable Vudhijaya Vajiramedhi in his future undertakings.

          The presentation of the title UNHCR Patron for Peace and Compassion to Venerable Vudhijaya Vajiramedhi is indeed a recognition of his important role in raising awareness and understanding on the plight of refugees. It also is a testament to Thailand’s long-established humanitarian endeavors to shelter those in need.