Parliament Backs Youth-Led Democracy Drive, Plans Regional Expansion

On September 17, 2024, Parliament Speaker Sophon Saramunee presided over the awards ceremony for the 2024 Innovation for Democracy Development Competition, presenting 15 awards to finalists selected from 99 submissions nationwide. The event at Parliament House included Deputy Minister Nan Bunyathida Somchai, parliamentary executives, teachers, students, and community organizations.

Sophon congratulated the award-winning students, schools, and organizations, noting that the competition showcases the potential of schools, youth, communities, and civic bodies. Since taking office, he said, his focus has been youth development to help democracy flourish in Thailand, beginning with children and young people. Parliament intends to sustain its various initiatives—including the Youth Council, mock parliament, and democracy innovation competitions—with plans to expand activities to the provincial level in 2025 and intensify efforts to give students greater opportunity to participate and shape democratic development.

Sophon also reflected on Thailand's future, which depends on the quality of its people. Given declining birth rates, Parliament held seminars on the challenges of fewer and lower-quality births, emphasizing that developing the children already born is crucial. He stressed that many young people lack opportunity, making it Parliament's duty to genuinely support and develop youth through concrete programs, not mere ceremony. "I thank all ministers, staff, and officials who have advanced these activities, and I am proud of the youth's participation," he said. "I am delighted that some young people say they are my fan club. Society thrives on encouragement, forgiveness, and praise—these cost nothing but lead to cooperation and wellbeing."

After his remarks, the speaker posed for photos with attendees, with many students requesting selfies. During one exchange, Sophon asked students to write down what they learned that day, promising prizes. Another student asked him to take care of his health.