PRD Represents Thailand at UNESCO’s CI Forum in Paris

PARIS (NNT) - The 42nd session of the UNESCO Commission for Communication and Information, held in Paris, France, commenced its two-day event on November 13, emphasizing the enhancement of global communication and information accessibility.

The session highlighted the prominent role of Thailand in UNESCO’s communication initiatives, represented by Sudruetai Lertkasem, Deputy Director-General of the Public Relations Department (PRD), and Kavi Chongkittavorn, a mass communication expert and member of the UNESCO Communication and Information Committee.

Ukrainian delegate Mykola Movchan led discussions on the first day, focusing on the progress made under the International Program for the Development of Communication (IPDC) and the Information for All Program (IFAP) for 2022-2023. The discussions underlined the alignment of national efforts with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with particular attention to media literacy, crisis communication, and fostering multilingualism to accommodate diverse cultural groups.

The PRD’s innovative approaches to media literacy and fact-checking were recognized, largely through its "Real News Thailand" initiative. This initiative reflects the inclusive communication policies advocated by Thailand’s Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Puangpet Chunlaiad, aiming to reach all societal groups and enhance public media awareness.

Future projects and budget allocations for 2024-2025 have also been deliberated, with a focus on promoting freedom of expression, ensuring the safety of journalists, and enhancing public skills in digital technology and media literacy. The allocations, which underscore UNESCO’s commitment to diverse and inclusive global development, will prioritize African countries and small island developing states, followed by Arab countries and the Asia-Pacific region.

By Krajangwit Johjit