Find out more about the award recipient

My name is Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, a Member of Parliament from Thailand and a lifelong advocate for equality and human rights.

Growing up in a country that has faced multiple military coups, I realized that Thai politics has not yet become a true space for diversity and people’s participation. That is why I chose politics as my platform to fight for dignity, representation, and justice for all.

Before entering politics, I worked in Thailand’s entertainment and communications industry, which allowed me to understand the dreams and struggles of people whose voices are often unheard — especially LGBTQI communities, children, and vulnerable groups. I am committed to using these experiences to build a more compassionate and inclusive society through laws and public policies.

As a legislator, I serve as the Vice-Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Children, Youth, Women, the Elderly, and Gender Diversity, and I am a member of the People’s Party.

My work focuses on ensuring that Thailand’s laws and policies uphold human dignity and equality — from marriage equality and gender recognition to child rights and fair, inclusive budgeting.

I believe that structural change requires both empathy and evidence-based policymaking, connecting human rights principles with tangible policy outcomes. I am committed to creating a principled and measurable form of politics — where human rights are not just ideals, but policies that truly transform people’s lives.

What one achievement you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of? Why?

I am most proud of helping to advance Thailand’s Marriage Equality Bill, a historic milestone in recognizing the rights of LGBTQI people. It was not only a legal reform but also a social awakening — a reminder that equality is not a privilege but a basic human right.

I also proposed the amendment to the Criminal Code on women’s reproductive rights, advocating in the special committee for women’s right to terminate pregnancy up to 20 weeks. Both legislations share one philosophy — restoring people’s right to make decisions about their own lives with equality and dignity.

What do you find most challenging about your work? Why?

The greatest challenge is confronting deep-rooted bias and political structures that still resist discussions about gender and diversity. Standing by principle often means standing against pressure. Yet every time I see young people rising up to demand their rights, I am reminded that the fight for equality will never be in vain.

What do you do to recharge your battery?

I often spend time in solitude — reflecting on questions about life, humanity, and the kind of world we wish to build.

The world may change rapidly, but the human desire for peace and acceptance remains constant. This belief grounds me and reminds me who I am amid a world that never stops moving.

What is your vulnerability and how do you overcome it?

My vulnerability lies in empathy — I feel deeply toward injustice, which can sometimes be emotionally draining. But I’ve learned to turn those emotions into strength — transforming anger into action, and loneliness into collaboration with others who share the same hope.

You have been nominated for the Social Justice category. What was your reaction and please, tell us why?

I am deeply honored and grateful. This nomination reflects that policy work is not just about drafting laws — it is about nurturing love and dignity for those who once could not imagine building a family of their own.

Today, they can envision their future equally to any couple in society. I believe that we are not merely asking for rights — we are reclaiming the rights that every human being should have had from the very beginning.

With changes that we are currently experiencing politically affecting our movement, and sustainability, what is a warm/hopeful message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific?

Even as politics around us change rapidly, our movements remain stronger than any political tide.

Our voices, united across borders, create waves of hope that no one can silence.

Let us continue to care for one another, stand together, and believe that equality is our shared destination.

Anything else you would like to share? 

I dedicate this nomination to everyone who dares to live authentically.

The road toward equality is never easy, but every step we take — every conversation, every legal reform — brings us closer to freedom.

I believe that true change begins with a courageous heart.

Thank you, APCOM, for recognizing and amplifying voices from the frontlines of social transformation.

Back to main article

---