United Nations Human Rights Council 53rd Session of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review: Joint Submission Prepared by The Coalition of CSOs for Children’s SOGIESC Rights – Thailand

This joint submission to the United Nations Human Rights Council for Thailand’s 4th Universal Periodic Review (UPR) examines the human rights situation of children and youth with diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). Developed through a participatory, youth-led process involving nationwide consultations, the report highlights persistent discrimination, violence, and structural barriers faced by SOGIESC youth, particularly in education, healthcare, family environments, and legal recognition.

While Thailand has made notable progress, including the enactment of the Marriage Equality Act (2025) and some institutional measures addressing gender discrimination, significant gaps remain in implementation and protection. Evidence from surveys and studies reveals widespread bullying in schools, limited access to gender-affirming and mental health services, and ongoing stigma within families and communities. Legal frameworks also fail to fully recognize gender identity or ensure equal protection for diverse family structures.

The report concludes with targeted recommendations urging the Thai government to strengthen anti-discrimination laws, implement inclusive education and healthcare policies, ensure legal gender recognition, and establish child-friendly protection mechanisms. Central to the submission is the emphasis on amplifying the voices and lived experiences of children and youth to inform rights-based policy reform.