LocationsChampioning Justice: Nattawut's Path to Inclusive Governance with UNDP Thailand
September 12, 2024
1. Tell us about yourself: What’s your background/professional experience and what inspired you to work with UNDP Thailand?
My name is Nattawut Worakhanta, and I hold a Master’s degree in Law from the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) and a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Mae Fah Luang University. Prior to joining UNDP, I served as a Project Coordinator in the Women and Children in Criminal Justice Programme at the Thailand Institute of Justice (TIJ), a public organization under the Ministry of Justice. In that role, I supported project management by conducting research and gathering information related to crime prevention and criminal justice, specifically focusing on issues affecting women and children.
Before my time at TIJ, I worked as a Foreign Relations Officer at the Office of International Affairs, Office of the Judiciary, where I provided interpretation services to victims, defendants, and witnesses in criminal cases, as well as organized meetings and training sessions for court interpreters.
My commitment to public service and law stems from a deep desire to address systemic inequalities and create a justice system that is accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic status. Working with UNDP Thailand has given me the opportunity to advance this mission on a broader scale. I was particularly drawn to UNDP's focus on inclusive governance, sustainable development, and its strategic partnerships with judicial and parliamentary bodies. These are not merely theoretical concepts to me; they are essential components of a global movement to ensure that development is equitable, transparent, and inclusive.
I am inspired by UNDP’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its principle of leaving no one behind, especially the most vulnerable. Being part of an organization that prioritizes fairness and justice in development is both personally meaningful and professionally fulfilling.
2. What is a day at the office like?
My workday is diverse, with a lot of tasks and responsibilities, making each day engaging and fulfilling. As part of my role in project management and coordination, I work closely with partners in the judiciary to develop and implement programs that enhance access to justice. This often includes drafting proposals for initiatives aimed at promoting equitable justice systems.
Additionally, I participate in meetings with key stakeholders to ensure alignment between our efforts and their objectives. We discuss the progress of ongoing initiatives and work collaboratively to maintain momentum on critical projects. A key aspect of my responsibilities involves closely monitoring project budgets to ensure optimal use of resources within the allocated timeframe, while ensuring alignment with the overall project work plan.
3. What are some of the challenges you encountered you have faced in this role and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I’ve faced is navigating the complex landscape of stakeholder interests and priorities, especially when working with institutions as diverse as the judiciary. The judicial sector often has its internal challenges and goals, which may not always align perfectly with the work we are doing at UNDP.
Overcoming this challenge requires patience, diplomacy, and a deep understanding of the stakeholder’s perspective. I’ve found that fostering open lines of communication is key—ensuring that all parties feel heard and understood goes a long way toward building trust. Additionally, I emphasize the shared long-term vision we all have for Thailand’s development by focusing on our common goals.
4. Tell us about your favorite moment with UNDP Thailand.
My favorite moment with UNDP Thailand was during a collaborative initiative with the judiciary where we launched a “Justice by Design” project to improve access to justice for vulnerable groups. It was a milestone for me because it showed how impactful our work can be when we align our efforts with the needs of the people we serve. The project was recognized at high-level conferences as a best practice for Thailand, further affirming the importance of people-centered approaches in advancing justice.
Beyond the project itself, I find great value in collaborating with my colleagues, whose expertise and knowledge significantly enrich our engagements with the judiciary. By working in a more integrated manner, we not only enhance the outcomes of individual projects but also provide broader learning opportunities for all involved. Contributing to meaningful change within Thailand’s legal system and being part of a dedicated team driving this transformation has been a truly rewarding experience in my career.
5. In what ways does this position enable you to contribute to the achievement of an inclusive and sustainable society?
In my role at UNDP Thailand, I am committed to advancing an inclusive and sustainable society in multiple ways. Through my work with the judicial sector, I advocate for the inclusion of vulnerable groups by fostering a more people-centered approach. Collaborating closely with the judiciary allows us to develop initiatives that enhance the accessibility and responsiveness of the legal system to meet the needs of these groups.
By promoting governance practices that are transparent, accountable, and inclusive, I contribute to fostering equitable development. A just society requires a balance between social, economic, and environmental objectives, and my work directly supports this balance through the implementation of sustainable and inclusive policies.
6. How is democratic governance significant to your work in promoting climate action, advancing the rights of vulnerable people, advocating for inclusive and responsive policies or fostering a just and equitable society? And how do you apply a democratic development approach to your work to drive progress in respective areas?
Democratic governance is absolutely essential to the work I do. Whether it’s promoting climate action or advocating for the rights of vulnerable people, democratic governance ensures that decisions are made transparently, inclusively, and with input from those who are most affected. It’s not enough to simply craft policies in isolation; we need to ensure that communities have a voice in shaping the laws and policies that impact their lives.
In my engagement with the judiciary, I integrate a democratic development approach by actively involving all stakeholders in the decision-making process. This includes conducting consultations, facilitating workshops, and ensuring that the perspectives of vulnerable groups are represented in judicial discussions. By promoting inclusive engagement within the legal system, we ensure that sustainable development benefits all members of society.
7. What piece of advice would you give to those who are considering applying to #JoinALifeChangingMission with UNDP?
My advice would be to approach your work with genuine passion and a readiness to collaborate with diverse individuals and institutions. At UNDP, empathy and resilience are essential qualities. You will face challenges, particularly when balancing the needs of varied stakeholders, but the rewards are significant. Staying committed to the mission of leaving no one behind and recognizing the transformative potential of your work is crucial.
I would also recommend being flexible and adaptable, as the development landscape is constantly evolving. The ability to pivot in response to new challenges is vital. Finally, embrace the opportunity to learn from others—UNDP offers a dynamic environment with passionate professionals from various fields, providing valuable opportunities for growth and knowledge.
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The Faces of UNDP Thailand is a series to echo the voice of UNDP staff who support UNDP and the community to advance the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Give us 3 words that describe UNDP Thailand: Inclusive, Integrated, ImpactfulNattawut Worakhanta, Partnership and Engagement Coordinator