According to the United Nations (UN), although the global population exceeds 8 billion, millions of people still lack legal status, especially children and youth, who are among the most vulnerable groups in society. The situation in Thailand reflects this reality. Data from the Ministry of Interior in 2024 revealed that over 587,000 individuals in the country are stateless and unregistered in the civil registry. Of these, more than 300,000 are children and youth whose nationality has not yet been verified.
On 1 August 2025, World Vision Foundation of Thailand joined forces with government agencies, non-government organisations, and civil society networks in Fang District, Chiang Mai Province, at the handover of national ID cards to stateless children, youth, and individuals. This was part of the ‘Kick-off for Advancing Solutions to Nationality and Legal Status Issues for Long-Term Migrants and Children Born in Thailand, Following the Cabinet Resolution Dated 29 October 2024.’ The initiative aims to promote basic rights and legal status for vulnerable groups living in border areas. The event was presided over by Miss Teerarat Samretwanich, Deputy Minister of Interior.
This activity is part of the ‘Legal Status and Rights Development for Stateless Children and Youth Project’, initiated and expanded by World Vision Foundation of Thailand in 2025 across four provinces: Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Tak, and Sa Kaeo. The project aims to assist children with a “G code” status to obtain a 13-digit ID number—an essential key to accessing basic rights equally. It is estimated that over 5,000 individuals in target areas will benefit from this initiative.
During the event, World Vision Thailand also hosted an activity booth under the theme ‘Building Identity for a Secure Future’, providing a space for attendees to engage in creative activities that highlighted the importance of legal identity. The booth attracted children, youth, and parents, who participated enthusiastically and learned more about their rights.
Mrs Rosalin Kowae, National Director of World Vision Foundation of Thailand, stated:
“Children without legal status or nationality often face barriers in accessing basic rights such as education, healthcare, and social protection—all of which are essential for holistic development. That is why World Vision Foundation of Thailand is committed to advocating for every child to receive legal status and nationality through collaboration with partners at both local and policy levels.
Today, many children have overcome those barriers and received their national ID cards for the first time. This marks a significant step towards accessing rights and life opportunities. We congratulate every child and hope to extend this opportunity to many more who are still waiting.
World Vision Thailand will continue working to ensure that every child receives an education, enjoys good health, is protected from violence, and can fully participate in society. We believe every child deserves the chance to grow up with quality and a promising future.”
One of the voices from the recipients, Phorntip, a university student from Chiang Mai, shared:
“To be registered as Thai, I had to go through many steps. I was nervous at every stage, always wondering if I would make it or if there would be issues with the documents. But when I finally received my ID card, I was overwhelmed with joy—it is hard to describe. It is a major milestone in my life. I want to thank all the agencies that helped me access the rights I deserve, especially World Vision Thailand, for supporting me during a crucial time and helping me get my ID card sooner.”
Additionally, Warintip, another university student from Chiang Mai, added:
“I am really overjoyed. It feels like a turning point in my life. This has given me more options, like access to healthcare, education, and scholarships from various organisations. Previously, having a ‘G code’ status meant my rights were limited compared to others. I want to become a nurse. Having an ID number starting with ‘00’ makes pursuing this career less complicated and opens more doors. If I still had the G code status, my rights and life choices would be more restricted.
I want to thank everyone who helped—World Vision Thailand, Plan International Thailand, and all the relevant agencies. Every bit of support has meant so much and has truly changed my life. Thank you so much.”
Receiving a national ID card is not only a confirmation of legal identity—it also opens the door to basic rights that everyone should have equally. In particular, it enables access to universal healthcare, allowing individuals to receive medical treatment without discrimination, reducing financial burdens, and increasing access to both general and emergency medical services.
Moreover, it allows access to other services, such as education, lawful employment, travel, financial transactions, and government assistance when needed. These rights not only improve individual quality of life but also help reduce social inequality, enabling everyone to live with dignity as equal members of Thai society.
This is just one example of the success that World Vision Foundation of Thailand has helped support. But our ministry continues. World Vision Thailand remains committed to systematically advocating for solutions to legal status issues, ensuring that every child in Thailand is protected by basic rights and has the opportunity to develop a sustainable quality of life.
