Thai NGO Forum
The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) conducted a Thai Non-governmental Organization (NGO) Forum from the 29-31 July 2004 at the Felix River Kwai Resort, Kanchanaburi, Thailand. Focus was given to disability-related NGOs and the Disabled Peoples Organization in Thailand.
Overview of the Forum
Objectives of the Forum were to provide an introduction and orientation to APCD for disability-related network organizations to work together with APCD by strengthening existing networks and mechanisms. The forty participants from 21 organizations included representatives of visually impaired, hearing impaired, physically impaired, and intellectually challenged persons. The agenda of the Forum focused on the following movements in Thailand:
- Movement of persons with disabilities in Thailand as well as other countries.
- Laws & legislation concerning persons with disabilities.
- Community-based Rehabilitation in Thailand as well as neighboring countries
- Education for persons with disabilities
- Information and Communication Technology for persons with disabilities
- Development of Leaders of persons with disabilities
Each agenda was addressed by a presentation by resource persons, primarily Thai experts, followed by discussion on how to apply the knowledge and experience in the existing situation.
Most participants evaluated the Forum as informative and useful to establish effective networking between APCD and NGO as well as among NGOs themselves.
This was the first national forum conducted by APCD to meet with GO, NGOs, and DPO to collaborate in developing the quality of life of Persons with disabilities in Thailand and will hopefully extend in the region.
