APF-Brookings IDP Project - Thailand

The APF-Brookings IDP Project Team visited the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) from 9-13 August 2004. The purpose of the visit was to meet with the NHRC, government agencies, local and international non-governmental bodies, civil society, international donor organisations, UN agencies, internally displaced persons and other stakeholders to discuss the role of the NHRC in assisting internally displaced persons. Internal displacement in Thailand has largely been caused by development projects, displacement of hill tribes and internal conflict in southern Thailand. The team made a series of recommendations for future activities including: the development of a conceptual framework to address the IDP situation; improving understanding and awareness of the dynamics of displacement in Thailand; establishment of regional links with Thailand’s neighbours; strengthening the NHRC’s capacity; strengthening international partnerships; and achieving legal reform.