A group photo of participants included APCD Network Partners, resource person and APCD staff. There were 25 persons attended the activities.

Mr. Thaevan Uthaivath, recourse person shared knowledge and tools to integrate ESG concepts into their work, while also strengthening skills that can be applied in both professional and daily life.

 Attendees completed the pre-session activity on what they expect to learn from the training.

Representative of Dao Ruang Group, the Self-Advocate Group of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities was sharing his perspective.

During the workshop, APCD staff shared and developed ideas on an “e-board,” reflecting key takeaways from the ESG training.

Mr. Narongrit Wattanaiabphan, President of Dao Ruang Group, the Self-Advocate Group of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities, presented products made by the group members.

Ms. Tanutchaporn Kawila, representative from the Dulabhatorn Foundation presented the information and activities of the Dulabhatorn Foundation.

Ms. Apiradee Wanichakorn (right side) and Ms. Kochakorn Samakmit (left side) colleagues from the Foundation for Children with Disabilities presented background, activities and fund-raising products of the foundation.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp concluded the APCD Network Partners Meeting by highlighting the importance of collaboration among partner organizations and thanking the ESG resource person for sharing valuable knowledge to support inclusive and sustainable development.

APCD conducted the Capacity Building Activity on ESG and Network Partners Meeting for Staff of Civil Society Organizations 

On Friday, 29 May 2026, APCD organized Network’s Partners Meeting and Training on “ESG in Practice for Government Organizations (GOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)” at Northgate Hotel, Bangkok. ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance.

APCD Network’s Partners Meeting aimed to strengthen partnerships and enhance collaborative support for the sustainable development and empowerment of persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The meeting brought together key partner organizations, including Dao Ruang Group, the Self-Advocate Group of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities, the Dulabhatorn Foundation (DBF), and the Foundation for Children with Disabilities (FCD). Participants exchanged experiences, discussed future collaboration, and explored ways to promote inclusive and sustainable development for persons with disabilities.

The Session on “ESG in Practice for Government Organizations (GOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)” aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and their practical application in organizational settings.

The session provided participants with knowledge and tools to integrate ESG concepts into the working place, while also strengthening skills that can be applied in both professional and daily life. Participants were encouraged to extend the benefits of ESG practices to their communities and society, contributing to more inclusive and sustainable development. The session was delivered and facilitated by Mr. Thaevan Uthaivath, Chairperson, Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Committee, Tata Steel (Thailand) Public Company Limited. Mr. Thaevan was also former expert of APCD on Disability Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) phase 1.

There were totally 25 participants from APCD’s partners and APCD staff members joined these significant activities.

APCD Community Development Manager was interviewed to share the knowledge and experiences about Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DIDRR).

The interview was focused on preparedness and protection of persons with disabilities towards disaster.

The Oh I See! program aims to raise awareness of Thai Society by dissemination on understanding of disability, rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the Thailand.

APCD Representative was Interviewed in Social Media Program “Oh I See!” on 12 May 2026, at APCD 

APCD Community Development Manager, Mr. Somchai Rungsilp was interviewed to share the knowledge and experiences about Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DIDRR), focusing on preparedness and protection of persons with disabilities towards disaster. The interview session was conducted by the social media program called “Oh I See!”. This program is supported by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP), Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS). The program aims to raise awareness of Thai Society by dissemination on understanding of disability as well as rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the Thailand.

Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen facilitated a DET (Disability Equality Training) session, helping participants gain accurate understanding and core knowledge of DIDRR.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp shared participants on DIDRR principles, DIDRR matrix tool and APCD practices, using exercises and gathering participant feedback.

Participants presented disaster preparedness strategies for people who live with physically impaired and hearing impairment using the DIDRR matrix tool.

Participants reflected on key takeaways and how they will apply DIDRR principles in their work.

APCD Resource Persons Strengthened Disability Inclusion in Disaster Risk Reduction Training.

The Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) organized the 7th Training Course on Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion in Disaster Risk Reduction (GEDSI-DRR) from 26–29 May 2026 at the Pullman G Bangkok. 

On 27 May, APCD contributed to the course through two resource persons from Community Development Department (CDD). Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of Networking & Collaboration, led a one-hour Disability Equality Training (DET) session for six participants from various organizations. Through interactive exercises, participants explored terminology around disability, impairment and barriers; analyzed videos; and engaged in self-discovery learning about the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the social model of disability.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Manager of CDD, facilitated a session on DIDRR fundamentals and APCD practices across Thailand, ASEAN and Asia-Pacific. Using the DIDRR matrix tool, participants analyzed how different types of disabilities require specific preparedness, response and recovery approaches to disaster types and process. Participants then presented their findings and shared feedback on sustainable DIDRR strategies. The course equipped policymakers and practitioners with practical tools to mainstream GEDSI into disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation efforts.

A group photo with Rhodes College and APCD, showcasing the souvenirs brought by the visitors.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, APCD Executive Director, welcomed the group with his opening remarks.

Dr. Elin Ovrebo shared Introduction and purpose of visit.

Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of Networking and Collaboration, gave a presentation on APCD’s key activities.

Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol, facilitate the visitor for tour to 60+ Plus Bakery & Café and observed the "Skills Development for Persons with Disabilities" program, including the APCD 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP.

Mr. Watcharapol facilitated a demonstration of Dodgebee, a disability-inclusive sport (DIS).

Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit facilitated a team building games calls Samspel. 

Rhodes College study tour enhances learning on Health Equity and Mental Health at APCD.

On 25 May 2026, a group of students and faculty from Rhodes College, USA, visited the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) as part of their study tour in Thailand. This was Rhodes College’s third visit to APCD, following a successful tour by another group the prior year. The delegation was led by Professor Elin Ovrebo and coordinated by Ms. Suleewan Sinsanyanukulas, the liaison from Thailand.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, the Executive Director of APCD, welcomed the group with welcome remarks which were followed by a presentation on APCD’s main activities delivered by Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of Networking and Collaboration. The 13 participants, which included students, faculty, Professor and coordinators, took part in experiential learning activities. They visited the 60+ Plus Bakery & Café and observed the “Skills Development for Persons with Disabilities” program, including the APCD 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP, which assists in vocational training and employment for individuals with disabilities.

The Highlight of the visit is the Disability Inclusive Sport (DIS) Demonstration. This demonstration aims to promote health and social participation of & for persons with disabilities. The visit wrapped up with an engaging Q&A session, during which students inquired about disability-related policies and their implementation in the region. Professor Ovrebo expressed her heartfelt gratitude to APCD for hosting another enlightening and valuable visit.

The group photo of participants of the event.

The group photos of the invited speakers and key figures involved in the project

The group photos of the invited speakers including Ms. Sonthaya Bunyapusit, Mr. Todd Lavelle, Ms. Nuchjaree Klaysuwan and a representative from the Department of Mental Health.

The group photos of the invited speakers including Ms. Sonthaya Bunyapusit, Ms. Nuchjaree Klaysuwan and a representative from the Department of Mental Health.

Participants attentively listening to the speakers.

 Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjttipun representative from APCD and a representative from the Department of Mental Health.

The group photo including Ms. Sonthaya Bunyapusit, Ms. Nuchjaree Klaysuwan and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjttipun.

APCD Joins Press Conference and Opening Ceremony of "Together as One Family" Project in Nonthaburi

The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) was honored to be represented at the press conference and opening ceremony of the project "Together as One Family: หลายดวงใจ หนึ่งครอบครัวเดียวกัน", organized by the Northern Thailand Association for Persons with Mental Disabilities, on Monday, 25 May 2026, at Ballroom A, 5th Floor, Best Western Plus Wanda Grand Hotel, Chaengwattana Road, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi.

APCD was represented by Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjttipun and Mr. Krittapol Chamrasromran, who attended on behalf of the Executive Director of APCD.

The event was graced by Ms. Sonthaya Bunyapusit, Director-General of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, who emphasized that improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities must encompass education, occupation, welfare, and rights — while championing an "Inclusive Society" supported by technology, innovation, and both public and private sector employment. A representative from the Department of Mental Health also highlighted that mental health concerns everyone, and that family, community understanding, and reduction of stigma are key to enabling persons with psychosocial disabilities to live fulfilling lives.

Additionally, Mr. Todd Lavelle, an American artist and social activist, shared his belief that arts, music, and creative activities can serve as powerful bridges to reduce prejudice and shift society's perspective on persons with mental health conditions. Ms. Nuchjaree Klaysuwan, President of the Association for Persons with Mental Disabilities of Thailand and Northern Region, closed by calling on society to offer understanding, opportunity, and equal acceptance to persons with psychosocial disabilities and their families.

The project, supported by the Fund for Promotion and Development of Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities, aims to strengthen the capacity of persons with psychosocial disabilities and their caregivers through livelihood promotion and sustainable community networks.

The main project activities are scheduled for 19–21 June 2026 at Nong Jong Kham, Mae Hong Son Province, featuring capacity-building activities, cultural performances, inspirational programs, and multi-sector networking to build a society of lasting understanding and opportunity.

APCD reaffirms its commitment to inclusive and collaborative approaches in advancing the rights and quality of life of persons with disabilities across the Asia-Pacific region.

H.E. Bhanubjatra Jittiang, Thailand representative to ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) Thailand delivered welcome remarks.

 APCD Representative attended and shared his insights as well as provided recommendations during the workshop, especially focusing on strengthening community and its networks in order to protect persons with disabilities.

Group Photo of Workshop participants and organizers. There were more than 50 persons participated in the event.

This workshop showed commitment among stakeholders on coping disability and trafficking in persons by strengthening regional and national cooperation, community and persons with disabilities.

APCD participated in Regional Workshop on “The Validation of the Zero Draft ASEAN Policy Brief on Disability and Trafficking in Persons”, on 7-8 May 2026, Manila, The Philippines.

APCD Representative attended the Regional Workshop on “Human Rights-Based Approaches to Address Intersectionality of Vulnerabilities in the Context of Trafficking in Persons-The Validation of the Zero Draft ASEAN Policy Brief on Disability and Trafficking in Persons”. 

The workshop aimed to validate of the Zero Draft ASEAN Policy Brief on Disability and Trafficking. The program was scheduled on 7-8 May 2026 in Manila, The Philippines. The workshop was co-organized by ASEAN-Australia Counter Trafficking and ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR).

H.E. Bhanubjatra Jittiang, Thailand representative to ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) Thailand delivered welcome remarks while the opening speeches were delivered by ASEAN high-level officials to the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC) and Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) Philippines.

The workshop was begun by sharing the workshop objectives and agenda overview, then shared the overview of the zero draft policy brief. The participants also were divided in small groups in order to discuss, confirm and validate in details about regional and national recommendations, framing and policy coherence as well as further steps and timeline agreement.

This workshop showed commitment among stakeholders including government, civil society organizations and organizations of persons with disabilities regarding disability and trafficking in persons by strengthening regional and national collaboration, community and persons with disabilities.