H.E. Dr. Surapong Tovichakchaikul (Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF THE PROCEEDINGS (FIRST DRAFT, INCOMPLETE)
The Bangkok Dialogue on the Rule of Law “Investing in the Rule of Law, Justice and Security for the Post-2015 Development Agenda”
Thailand is committed to playing a constructive role in the process of setting out new development aspirations following the target date of the millennium development goals in 2015. He noted that last August Thailand had hosted the "Asia Pacific ministerial dialogue: from MDG's to the UN development agenda in 2015" in collaboration with UNESCAP.
From Thailand's perspective, the new development framework must, among others, encompass the following key elements: 1) It must build on the success of the MDG's and address the remaining obstacles to fully achieving the targets; 2) it should also be responsive to pressing global challenges, whether they be social, economic or environmental questions; and 3) most importantly, a people centred approach should remain the focus of inclusive development.
He noted that the report of the high-level panel of eminent persons for the post-2015 development agenda also reflects the same thinking - to promote peace and sustainable development, it is necessary to have efficient, transparent, and accountable institutions that will enhance the rule of law and ensure access to justice.
He proposed Thailand’s idea that the rule of law itself be made a goal for development. “Ensuring justice and the rule of law can also be an underpinning element behind achievement of development targets.” He expressed the hope that the forum will serve as a catalyst for further debate and exploration to see how such concerns can be mainstreamed into the post-2015 process.