Victory for Indigenous Peoples in Thailand: Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact celebrates the passing of the Law on the Protection and Promotion of the Way of Life of Ethnic Groups

The Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP) extends heartfelt congratulations to the Network of Indigenous Peoples in Thailand and the Council of Indigenous Peoples in Thailand (CIPT) for their unwavering advocacy and lobbying efforts since 2012, which culminated in the passing of the Law on the Protection and Promotion of the Way of Life of Ethnic Groups on August 6, 2025.

The overwhelming support for the bill, with 421 votes in favor out of 425, underscores the critical need to protect the rights and cultural identities of ethnic minority groups in Thailand. This law represents a significant step toward recognizing and embracing the country’s cultural diversity. It aims to enhance the quality of life for ethnic groups, enabling them to maintain their cultural practices and identities with pride.

The dedicated and unwavering efforts of Indigenous Peoples in Thailand have borne fruit, and now it is essential to implement this law in close partnership with the Council of Indigenous Peoples in Thailand (CIPT). In a statement released on August 6, the CIPT reaffirmed its commitment to fully implementing this law by collaborating with government agencies to establish measures and action plans that promote and protect indigenous ways of life. This includes managing livelihood protection areas for Indigenous Peoples across all ethnic groups throughout the country.

This landmark legislation reflects Thailand’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society that respects and celebrates its rich cultural heritage.

AIPP joins in celebrating this victory with the Indigenous Peoples of Thailand and reaffirm our commitment to working alongside the Indigenous Peoples of Thailand to implement this law to its fullest potential. Additionally, AIPP will collaborate with the Council of Indigenous Peoples in Thailand (CIPT) to gather insights and identify the limitations of law implementation, aiming to improve this Act in the future, as stated in CIPT statement released on August 6.

In Solidarity,

Gam A. Shimray
Secretary General
Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP)

Click here to download the full congratulatory statement