On 9 May 2019, Ms. Tuenjai Deetes, National Human Rights Commissioner, Chairperson of the Working Group in charge of stateless persons and ethnic minorities, expressed her concerns on the case of Ms. Namphung Panya, 18-year-old stateless student at Damrongratsongkroh School, Chiang Rai Province, whose visa application was denied twice by the US Embassy in Bangkok. Ms. Panya was selected, among others, by the relevant Thai authorities to represent the country in the scientific project competition “the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair” to be held in Phoenix, Arizona State during 12 - 17 May 2019.
          Ms. Deetes said that Ms. Panya’s application was supported by relevant documents issued by the Thai authorities concerned including the permission for her to travel outside of the home district area, the certification that Ms. Panya being in the process of Thai citizenship application and the confirmation of financial support for her trip. The Office of the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand also issued a letter in her support, emphasizing that as the youth she should have the opportunity develop her full potential as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Unfortunately, her visa application has been still denied.
          Ms. Deetes said she respected State sovereignty and recognized the need of a State to maintain national security by examining and scrutinizing persons who will enter and leave the country. Nevertheless, the basic rights of persons, especially children and youths, should be accorded without distinction of any kind including their status as long as the enjoyment does not threaten the life of the nation, public safety, order or morals.
          Ms. Deetes said that she is coordinating with the Department of Provincial Administration, Chiang Rai Province and the US Embassy how to redress the case at best. She fully hopes that the case of Ms. Punya will enhance public understanding that stateless persons, particularly children and young people, are entitled the rights to survive, be protected, grow up and develop their full potentials as guaranteed by international human rights principles.

09/05/2019