Thailand is a country I have visited, a place of rich culture, resilience.

We see Thailand as a valued partner of the European Union, and today, I’m not here to preach, but to strengthen that partnership – one which is rooted in democracy, human rights, and mutual respect.

Yet, real partnerships require honesty. And we must be honest about our deep concern over the prosecution of Thai parliamentarians, opposition figures, and human rights defenders under the lèse-majesté law.

Peaceful democratic discourse should never be a crime. Their voices should be heard, not silenced. Democracy thrives when dissent is debated, not punished.

For this reason, we strongly urge the Thai authorities to grant an amnesty to those prosecuted or imprisoned for the peaceful exercise of their rights.

We are also concerned about the deportation of Uyghur asylum seekers and the reports of mistreatment they face. By strengthening its refugee protections, Thailand has an opportunity to lead by example.

Our resolution today is not about condemnation – it is about engagement.

Thailand has made progress, and we recognize that. But meaningful reforms, particularly to the lèse-majesté law, must continue to ensure fundamental freedoms are upheld.

We urge the Thai government to take concrete steps toward greater democracy, political inclusivity, and human rights protections.

The Free Trade Agreement negotiations is a process that can bring prosperity if anchored in shared values. A thriving, open democracy strengthens Thailand’s global position and reassures its partners that economic and political progress go hand in hand.

To our Thai friends—we stand ready to work with you, not against you. This is not just about an EU resolution – it is about the future of Thai democracy and the fundamental rights of its people.

Let us use this moment not as a division, but as an opportunity—to engage, to reform, and to move forward together.