On Thursday, 2 October 2025, Dr. Phiset Sa-ardyen, Executive Director of the Thailand Institute of Justice (TIJ), delivered the opening remarks at the 8th International Prison Chaplains’ Association (IPCA) Worldwide Conference, held from 2–7 October 2025 at the Church of Christ in Thailand.
This meaningful occasion marked TIJ’s first formal engagement with an international faith-based organization, underscoring a shared commitment to promoting the humane treatment of prisoners in line with international standards and norms, and to supporting their successful reintegration into society as law-abiding citizens.
As part of the programme, Dr. Nathee Chitsawang, Advisor of the Thailand Institute of Justice, joined the plenary session titled, "A Thai perspective on resettlement". He highlighted the longstanding collaboration between Thai prisons and prison chaplains, and presented the recent initiative of TIJ’s Pre-Release Programme. This initiative provides prisoners with comprehensive support - mental, spiritual, educational, and vocational. This partnership has contributed to the improvement of prisoners’ mindsets, strengthened personal development, and prepared them for successful reentry into society.
In addition, a representative from the Office for the Bangkok Rules and Treatment of Offenders contributed to the panel discussion titled, "Living rights for a living hope". She shared TIJ’s efforts to promote the implementation of the UN Bangkok Rules, with a particular focus on addressing the gender specific needs of women in prison and the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships to ensure their successful rehabilitation and reintegration.
Alongside the conference sessions, TIJ also presented its “Through a Different Lens” exhibition. The exhibition showcased TIJ’s research, initiatives, and insights into the experiences and needs of women in prison, offering participants a deeper understanding of gender-responsive justice and the role of the Bangkok Rules.
The IPCA Worldwide Conference brought together over 130 prison chaplains from 33 countries around the world, serving as a meaningful platform to exchange experiences, strengthen partnerships, and explore practical ways to advance humane treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration of prisoners worldwide.
