On 27 April 2026, H.E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Representative of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, delivered opening remarks at the “Regional Forum on Human Rights Cities in ASEAN: Localising Human Rights for Inclusive Development Towards Localising the ASEAN Community Vision 2045,” held at the Grande Centre Point Hotel Lumphini, Bangkok, from 27 - 28 April 2026.

The forum aims to advance the concept of “Human Rights Cities” in ASEAN by promoting governance models that integrate human rights principles into urban development and community life. It is envisioned as a vital platform for local governments, civil society, and relevant regional bodies to exchange experiences, and identify best practices, and strengthen collaboration for more inclusive development.

The Representative of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs underscored that cities must evolve not only as engines of economic growth, but also as spaces that safeguard equity, inclusion, and human dignity. He reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to promoting and protecting human rights for all as a cornerstone of sustainable development at both national and local levels. In addition, he expressed pride in the fact that Bangkok has taken concrete steps towards becoming a Human Rights City and emphasised the importance of robust partnerships with ASEAN’s external partners and stakeholders, including civil society, private sector, and local communities—to advance the people-centred ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

The forum is a part of this year’s priority programme of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), shepherded by Assistant Professor Dr. Bhanubhatra Jittiang, Thailand’s Representative to AICHR. It was co-organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, ASEAN Centre for Sustainable Development Studies and Dialogue (ACSDSD), ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF), and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, with the support from the European Union (EU).