On August 28, 2025, the 10th TICA Connect, themed “Empowering People, Innovating for Change,” unfolded in Bangkok, highlighting Thailand’s evolving approach to international development cooperation. The event, orchestrated by the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored a shift towards prioritizing human development alongside technological innovation as core tenets of Thailand’s foreign policy. This event, coinciding with TICA’s 10th anniversary, represents a deliberate strategy to bolster Thailand’s international standing and adapt to the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape.
The core of the conference centered around recognizing that sustainable development hinges on empowering individuals through education, skills development, and fostering a mindset of adaptability. Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Lalivan Karnchanachari’s opening remarks explicitly stated the importance of human development as “the heart of national development,” encompassing all age groups and generations. This aligns with broader trends observed in Southeast Asian nations, where governments are increasingly focused on improving human capital as a driver of economic growth and social stability. “The ability to adapt and innovate is crucial for Thailand’s competitiveness in the 21st century,” remarked Dr. Orakanyanee Liang-issara, Assistant Rector for Lifelong Learning Promotion and Head of the Continuing Education Center at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), a key partner in several TICA initiatives. “Policy must translate into practice, and we need to equip our citizens with the tools to thrive in a dynamic global environment.”
The event’s format incorporated several key components. Panel discussions explored the challenges of developing vulnerable populations and strategies for youth participation in sustainable development – a particularly pertinent area considering Thailand’s demographic shift. A significant element of the conference involved showcasing products created by victims of human trafficking, supported by the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to addressing social issues alongside economic development. Exhibitions displayed TICA’s international cooperation efforts across various countries, alongside exhibits from partner organizations, promoting a multi-stakeholder approach to development.
Beyond the immediate outcomes of the conference, the 10th TICA Connect signals a broader strategic realignment within Thailand’s foreign policy. Data from the World Bank consistently demonstrates a strong correlation between higher education levels and economic growth, suggesting a logical alignment. Furthermore, the focus on “innovation” mirrors Thailand’s own ambitions to become a regional hub for technology and entrepreneurship, particularly in sectors like digital technology and renewable energy. According to a 2024 report by the Asian Development Bank, countries investing heavily in technological infrastructure and human capital exhibit significantly greater resilience to global economic shocks.
Looking ahead, the success of this strategic shift will hinge on several factors. The next six months will likely see increased investment in vocational training programs and STEM education in Thailand, driven by both governmental and private sector initiatives. Longer-term, the potential impact could be profound, strengthening Thailand’s diplomatic relationships, facilitating greater access to global markets, and contributing to a more resilient and adaptable economy. However, sustained commitment and effective implementation are vital. “The challenge is to translate this ambitious vision into tangible results,” stated Mr. Chulvat Narinthrangura, Director-General of TICA, “and to ensure that our international cooperation efforts genuinely empower the communities we serve.” A study by the Overseas Development Institute in 2023 found that aid effectiveness is significantly improved when recipient countries actively participate in the design and implementation of aid programs – a principle the TICA appears to be adopting.