Celebration of Thai Women’s Day in Honor of Her Majesty the Queen

The Cabinet in 2003 designated 1 August each year Thai Women’s Day, as proposed jointly by the Ministry of Interior, the National Council of Women of Thailand, and women’s groups across the country. The reason is that 1 August usually marks the start of activities carried out to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s birthday.

 Her Majesty granted permission for the use of the Cattleya "Queen Sirikit” orchid as the symbol for Thai Women’s Day. A crossbred Cattleya, which is well known and loved among orchid lovers, this variety of orchid yields long white blossoms with yellow lips. It is one of the flowers bearing the royal name "Queen Sirikit” of Thailand, by Her Majesty’s royal consent.

 Her Majesty the Queen, who is recognized as the Mother of the Thai Nation, has given immense support to the cause of Thai women. For instance, she has sponsored programs and organizations providing educational and training opportunities to enable women to improve their economic and social welfare, while enhancing appreciation for their national cultural heritage.

 Her Majesty has introduced supplementary occupations for Thai women to earn extra income through the Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques, or the SUPPORT Foundation. She has not only provided them with opportunities to earn more income, but has also given them pride in their fine craftsmanship in arts and crafts.

Her Majesty’s exceptional leadership in fostering the role of Thai women has received international recognition in the form of awards and honorary degrees from many institutions and organizations. Among these awards were the UNICEF Recognition Award and the UNIFEM Award of Excellence presented to her in 1992.

Each year, women’s groups and public and private sectors nationwide join hands with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security in organizing the celebration of Thai Women’s Day in honor of Her Majesty the Queen. The theme for the celebration this year is "Power of Thai women under the Auspices of Her Majesty the Queen.” The presentation of plaques of honor to outstanding Thai women is a highlight of the celebration.

Meanwhile, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has designated August 2016 a month for women travelers, in celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s birthday. 

Various activities will be organized throughout August, as part of the "Women’s Journey Thailand” program. Special offers, discounts, and privileges will also be arranged, aimed at women, whether travelling alone or with groups of friends.