The Thailand Institute of Justice, led by Dr. Phiset Sa-ardyen, Executive Director, together with the management team, was honored to welcome Mr. Honda Taro and Mr. Komura Masahiro, Members of the House of Representatives from the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan, H.E. Mr. Otaka Masato, Ambassador of Japan to Thailand, along with representatives from the Embassy of Japan, on the occasion of their visit to Thailand on 28 April 2026 at the TIJ Building on Chaeng Watthana Road, Bangkok.
On this occasion, both sides exchanged views on the overall criminal justice systems of Thailand and Japan, with particular focus on the treatment of prisoners, capacity-building and skills development programs for inmates, and pre-release preparation. The discussions emphasized the importance of supporting successful reintegration into society and reducing recidivism. The Japanese Government also highlighted their efforts in advancing the United Nations Model Strategies on Reducing Reoffending.
Dr. Phiset underscored the importance of the global “Bangkok Rules Accelerator” initiative, based on the Bangkok Rules (United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-custodial Measures for Women Offenders), which has been developed by Thailand Institute of Justice in collaboration with United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The initiative aims to provide long-term support for prisoners and former inmates. As a financing mechanism, it mobilizes multi-sectoral partnerships to support women after release and ensure that women in the justice system are treated equitably and effectively.
During the visit, Dr. Anuwan Vongpichet, Deputy Executive Director of TIJ, and Miss Chontit Chuenurah, Director of Office for the Bangkok Rules and Treatment of Offenders, guided the delegation through the “Through a Different Lens” exhibition, marking the 15th anniversary of the Bangkok Rules. The exhibition presents post-release life stories from new perspectives to foster understanding and reduce social stigma. The delegation also visited “Restart Academy”, which supports new beginnings and the reintegration of former inmates into society.
