The International Relations and Global Affairs (IRGA) major of Mahidol University International College (MUIC) cohosted with the Swedish Embassy, Thailand “Women in Politics: How to Overcome the Roadblocks for Inclusion?”

The event held on March 22, 2023 at the Swedish Ambassador’s Residence highlighted the personal experiences of Dr. Cecilia Rustrӧm-Ruin, Sweden’s Ambassador for Democracy, Human Rights and the Rule of Law, Ms. Siripa Intavichein, Deputy Spokesperson, Democrat Party, and Ms. Kunthida Rungruengkiat, Director, Progressive Movement and former Member of Parliament.

The speakers provided insights into obstacles that they faced which were based on cultural norms of prejudice and family stereotypes, structural impediments of money and political party hierarchy, harassment from men and women alike and media narratives that discriminate against women. The speakers noted differences and similarities of their shared experiences from European and Thai perspectives.

Of particular interests were the speakers’ experiences of obstacles that come from cultural prejudices from men who expect women to play a secondary role in political life rather than being focal points of change.

The event was attended by 50 selected students from the IRGA major who presented plans to overcome preselected scenarios raised by the speakers. Also, in attendance to close the event was Swedish Ambassador to Thailand H.E. Jon Grondahl.