June 10, 2025, 15.00 hours local time, United Nations building, Geneva, Switzerland – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, together with Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, and senior executives of the ministry, met with Mr. Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), to reaffirm Thailand’s role on the global labour stage and report progress on key national labour policies.
The highlight of the meeting was Thailand’s ratification of ILO Convention No. 155 on Occupational Health and Safety, along with the 2002 Protocol, a major proactive move by the Ministry of Labour to elevate Thailand’s workplace safety standards to meet international levels. Thailand is among the first countries in the ASEAN region to take this step.
Mr. Phiphat stated that this ratification is more than signing a document; it represents Thailand’s commitment to creating workplaces that are safe, of high quality, and respectful of all workers, both Thai and foreign. He emphasized that workplace safety is a foundation for sustainable economic and social development.
On driving the ratification of Convention No. 155, the Director-General of the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare reported that this initiative stemmed from Mr. Phiphat’s core policy that promotes safety through three key areas: 1. Rigorous enforcement of safety laws. 2. Raising awareness at the enterprise level, and 3. Embedding a sustainable safety culture in all dimensions.
Mr. Phiphat concluded by affirming, “We are committed to ensuring that Thai workers enjoy a safe working life and good occupational health, enabling them to grow continuously and work confidently in the future. This is the heart of a strong workforce, and Thailand will continue progressing in this regard.”
In response, the ILO Director-General praised Thailand for its commitment to workplace safety and noted that this convention has now been elevated to an “ILO Fundamental Convention.” Thailand’s ratification will positively impact the country’s image, especially among European trading partners who place great importance on labour standards.
Further policy cooperation was also discussed, with the ILO commending Thailand’s efforts in Supporting migrant workers, assisting Myanmar trade unions during the crisis, and preparing to join the Global Coalition for Social Justice, which will further strengthen Thailand’s regional role. The ILO also recognizes Thailand as a key UN hub in Asia, with its regional office based in Bangkok.
Mr. Boonsong added that Thai workers going abroad are generally well-prepared due to pre-departure training and orientation. However, a recurring challenge is that some job placements do not fully match workers’ expectations, an area that Thailand aims to improve. During the meeting, senior Thai labour officials also reported on key policy progress. The Director-General of the Department of Skill Development presented plans to upskill migrant workers through the Skill Development Fund, improving both efficiency and safety. They also addressed ILO queries on supporting returning Thai workers, citing the example of Thai agricultural workers from Israel who now serve as trainers, passing on knowledge in smart farming and water-efficient agriculture to local Thai farmers.
The Ministry of Labour also expressed its readiness to welcome the ILO Director-General during his upcoming official visit to Thailand in October 2025, where he will observe the country’s labour achievements firsthand and discuss further cooperation.
