World Vision Foundation of Thailand Joins National Efforts to Advance Legal Status for Stateless Children and Youth

'Continuing Royal Compassion: Advancing Legal Status for G‑Code Students' — Strengthening Collaboration Among Government and Civil Society Partners to Restore Rights, Create Opportunities, and Leave No One Behind

In early April, World Vision Foundation of Thailand. As an organization playing a role in developing the personal status and rights of stateless children. Participated in the activity “Continuing Royal Compassion: Advancing Legal Status for G‑Code Students,” organized in celebration of the birthday anniversary of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on 2 April 2026. The event was held at Sai Yok Maneekanchan Wittaya School, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi Province, and was officially opened by Mr. Nacha Khosasivilai, Director‑General of the Department of Provincial Administration.

The activity was organized through collaboration between government agencies, relevant authorities, and civil society partners. Participants included representatives from the Kanchanaburi Provincial Red Cross Office, the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR Thailand), members of the legislative sector, and several non‑governmental organizations. World Vision Foundation of Thailand participated as a key civil society partner with long‑standing experience in child rights protection and legal status development in project areas.

The event featured exhibitions by government agencies and civil society partners. World Vision Foundation of Thailand hosted a booth showcasing outcomes from its Legal Status and Rights Development Project for Stateless Children and Youth. The project aims to support children with G code status in obtaining a 13-digit identification number—a key to equal access to basic rights. To date, more than 29,433 individuals have benefited from the project’s support in submitting applications for legal status verification. Among them, 1,097 G-code students have received their 13-digit identification numbers as required by law. In addition, more than 23,732 children and adults have had their legal status duly recognised under the Cabinet Resolution of 29 October 2024.

As well as presenting information on the “Cooperation for Change Project: Strengthening Collaboration to End Statelessness (C4C Project)”, jointly implemented with the Foundation for Stateless Person Network. The project is supported by funding from the European Union (EU) and aims to reduce the number of stateless persons in target areas by at least 35% by 2028. The project promotes systematic civil registration and legal recognition in Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Tak, Ratchaburi, and Kanchanaburi Provinces.

Ms. Rosalin Goware, Director of World Vision Foundation of Thailand, stated:
“Through our current work, World Vision Foundation of Thailand is actively engaged in policy advocacy on behalf of children of migrant workers who have not yet received legal recognition. This lack of legal status prevents them from fully accessing basic welfare services and protections provided by the state.

These children represent one of the most vulnerable population groups, as they face significant barriers to accessing fundamental rights. This issue directly aligns with World Vision Thailand’s core mandate and is a key priority within our organizational strategy for the period 2026–2030.

World Vision Foundation of Thailand firmly believes that every child, regardless of nationality or religion, is entitled to equal fundamental rights. Every child should have access to quality education, healthcare and public health services, and social protection, enabling them to live with dignity and reach their full potential, just like any other child in society.”

This event marked another significant milestone in advancing national policy efforts to restore rights and create opportunities for G‑Code students. During the event, 1,000 personal identification cards were officially granted to students in Kanchanaburi Province, covering three districts: Mueang Kanchanaburi, Thong Pha Phum, and Sai Yok. The ceremony was filled with a profound sense of hope for both children and their families.

Rin, a 12‑year‑old Grade 4 student under World Vision Thailand’s sponsorship in Kanchanaburi Province, was among those who received a “Personal Identification Card for Persons Without Civil Registration Status.” This card represents a critical first step toward legal recognition and access to fundamental rights.

Rin shared: “I am very happy to receive my ID card and legal status today. When I get sick, I will now be able to receive medical treatment. Before this, my mother had to work very hard to save money for medical expenses and school fees. Receiving this card also means my younger sibling will have a chance to receive legal status in the future.”

Beyond access to healthcare and education, the ID card has ignited new dreams for the young student:

“I want to become a teacher someday and teach other children. I will study hard, and my mother encourages me to continue my education through university. After graduating, I will be able to apply for Thai nationality in accordance with the law.”

Similarly, Boon, an 11‑year‑old Grade 5 student supported by World Vision Thailand, shared thoughts with a bright smile:

“I am very happy to receive my ID card today. This card gives me the opportunity to apply for Thai nationality legally and continue my education like other children. Before having this card, I was teased and bullied by friends, which made me very sad. Now that I have an ID card, that will no longer happen.”

Boon added that the card is not only about rights, but also about future aspirations:

“I want to become a nurse and take care of patients. This card is like a key that opens the door for me to follow my dreams and build a better future.”

The Legal Status and Rights Development Project for Stateless Children and Youth, together with the C4C Project, reflects World Vision Thailand’s ongoing commitment to child rights protection, human dignity, and social justice. These efforts also align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
SDG 16.9 – Providing legal identity for all
SDG 10 – Reducing inequalities within countries
SDG 4 – Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all

Obtaining a personal identification card and entering the civil registration system legally represents a crucial step that enables children and youth to access essential services such as healthcare, education, and social welfare. This process not only transforms the life of a child, but also strengthens long‑term security and hope for entire families.

World Vision Foundation of Thailand reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the Department of Provincial Administration and partners across all sectors to ensure that every child—particularly those in vulnerable situations—receives comprehensive rights protection. Together, World Vision Thailand strives to enable children to grow, thrive, and develop their full potential as valuable contributors to society, guided by the principles of sustainable development and the shared commitment to “leave no one behind.”

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