The Thai Senate Standing Committee on Labour, together with its Sub-committee on Labour Protection and Welfare, visited the International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Office for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao People's Democratic Republic (CO-Bangkok) this morning, 20 August 2025, at the United Nations Building in Bangkok.
The dialogue marked an important step in Thailand's efforts to strengthen labour standards and promote decent work for all. At the centre of the discussions were two core ILO Conventions: Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organize Convention, 1948 (No. 87), and Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98). These Conventions are fundamental to ensuring that workers and employers can form and join organizations of their own choosing and bargain collectively to thrive for decent work.
Participants explored how ratifying the Conventions could bring tangible benefits to Thai workers, employers and society at large. Lessons from other countries show that when these standards are applied, productivity rises as workers enjoy stronger protection and work with dignity, workplaces become fairer and more harmonious, and labour relations are more stable and settlements are peaceful. For Thailand, such progress would not only advance workers' rights but also enhance national competitiveness and strengthen the country's international reputation as a champion of global labour standards.
"When workers have a voice, workplaces are fairer, economies are stronger, and societies thrive," said Xiaoyan Qian, Director of ILO Decent Work Technical Support Team for East and South-East Asia and the Pacific and Country Office for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao People's Democratic Republic.
Committee members and ILO specialists also discussed the importance of aligning national legislation with international standards and ensuring that effective mechanisms are in place to put rights into practice. By engaging directly with the ILO, the Thai Senate reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a labour environment where workers' voices are heard and respected.
This dialogue reflects a shared vision for a future in which labour standards do more than support economic growth as they improve lives, ensure fairness, and contribute to sustainable development across Thailand.
