A group of students from the International Relations and Global Affairs (IRGA) program of Mahidol University International College (MUIC) attended the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Symposium on March 18, 2026 at Chatrium Grand Bangkok.
The students—Kanoknun Whanta, Pimradapas Dontresanoh, and Nattanon Puttarandsee—were accompanied by Dr. Deekana T. Kaiser, IRGA Program Director.
The event was hosted by the Embassy of Canada to Thailand and brought together experts and practitioners to discuss the role of gender in peace and security.
The symposium offered valuable insights into gender equality and women’s empowerment within the global security agenda. Participants learned about Thailand’s ongoing efforts to implement its National Action Plan (NAP) in alignment with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, particularly through the integration of gender perspectives into policymaking and the promotion of women’s participation in decision-making processes.
The event featured distinguished speakers, including LCdr. Delphine Bonnardot from the NATO Rapid Reaction Corps France, Christine Arab from UN Women, and Dr. Duanghathai Buranajaroenkij of the Asian Institute of Technology. Their discussions highlighted the critical importance of incorporating gender perspectives into security strategies and conflict resolution efforts.
A key takeaway from the symposium was the recognition that development and security can advance hand in hand, with gender equality serving as a vital link to sustainable peace. During an interactive workshop session, participants applied the “Start Stop Continue” framework to develop practical and actionable policy recommendations.
Overall, the symposium provided an inspiring and thought-provoking experience, deepening students’ understanding of inclusive approaches to peacebuilding and reinforcing the importance of gender-responsive policies in achieving long-term global stability.
