On 28 - 29 May 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs (DTLA), in collaboration with the Faculty of Law, Chulalongkorn University; Faculty of Law, Khon Kaen University; and Faculty of Law, Thammasat University, hosted the inaugural DTLA International Law Symposium 2026 under the theme “Upgrade Thailand, Update International Law.” In attendance were over 150 participants, including representatives from government agencies, academia, the private sector, legal experts, and young legal professionals.

Mr. Benjamin Sukanjanajtee, Director-General of the Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs, delivered opening remarks highlighting a historical milestone in Thailand's study of international law: King Vajiravudh’s (Rama VI) royal treatise titled "Public International Law," authored in 1910. This foundational work reflects Thailand's long-standing tradition of understanding, adapting, and developing legal frameworks in alignment with national interests. He emphasized that as the world currently faces multifaceted challenges ranging from geopolitical competition and global economic volatility to climate change and cybersecurity threats, international law has become a vital strategic tool to lead foreign policy.

More than 30 panelists presented academic research across various areas of international law, including economic and investment law, environmental law, human rights law, international humanitarian law, the law of the sea, space law, and cybersecurity, with the goal of translating these academic findings into concrete foreign policy actions. The event featured exhibitions highlighting international law-related initiatives organized by the Office of the National Human Rights Commission, the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), the Thailand Institute of Justice (TIJ), and Greenpeace Thailand.

This symposium was not only a platform for academic presentations, but also a catalyst for building a resilient network of international legal professionals and bridging academic knowledge with real-world diplomatic practice.