In a statement released on 10 Jul 2025, Mr. Phuchphop Mongkolnavin, Deputy Director-General, International Organizations Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, emphasized the country’s commitment to the principles enshrined in the World Heritage Convention and its willingness to work constructively with the World Heritage Centre, Advisory Bodies, States Parties to the Convention, and all partners to find a balanced approach between conservation and development.
The announcement made on 10 Jul 2025 follows Thailand’s participation in the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France. The session brought together representatives from around the world to discuss the preservation and protection of cultural and natural heritage sites. Mr. Mongkolnavin highlighted Thailand’s determination to ensure the sustainable preservation and development of its existing World Heritage Sites by actively engaging with the World Heritage Centre.
Thailand has eight cultural and natural properties inscribed on the World Heritage List, including The Ancient City of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments, Phu Phrabat, a testimony to the Sema stone tradition of the Dvaravati period, and Historic City of Ayutthaya. Additionally, Thailand has seven sites on the Tentative List, such as Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan in Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phra Prang of Wat Arun Ratchawararam: The Masterpiece of Krung Rattanakosin.
The session also saw the announcement that three Thai World Heritage sites are currently under the state of conservation agenda. These sites include The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments, Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, and Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex.
Thailand’s commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage aligns with the country’s vision to strengthen its role in regional and international affairs. As a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Thailand recognizes the importance of protecting and sharing cultural heritage among its fellow nations.
In conclusion, Thailand’s active participation in the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee reflects the country’s dedication to preserving its rich cultural and natural heritage for future generations. Through its engagement with international organizations like UNESCO, Thailand demonstrates its commitment to strengthening conservation efforts and promoting sustainable development.
Key World Heritage Sites of Thailand:
- The Ancient City of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments
- Phu Phrabat, a testimony to the Sema stone tradition of the Dvaravati period
- Historic City of Ayutthaya
- Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns
- Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex
- Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex
- Thung Yai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries
Thai World Heritage Sites under State of Conservation Agenda:
- The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments
- Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex
- Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex