SDGS AROUND THE GLOBE

ACSDSD is the ASEAN coordinator for sustainable development strengthen the Complementarities Initiatives 2.0 through inclusive, people-oriented participation connecting youth inclusion to sustainable development. We brought together a message to ASEAN policymakers from youth organizations and ASEAN entities to amplify them on #ACSDSDspotlight, such as ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB), Young ASEAN Leadership Policy Initiatives (YALPI) by Chulalongkorn University, Green Youth Thailand, ASEAN Foundation Model ASEAN Meeting (AFMAM Thailand) and Kasetsart University Thai International Affairs Club. Building on these diverse perspectives, we now introduce Kasetsart University Thai International Affairs Club. (KUTHIA)

 

Diplomacy for People: A Youth Perspective Inspired by KUTHIA

Meet Mr. Navawit Tubtimthong
First Secretary of KUTHIA

From a youth perspective shaped by my experience with the KU – Thai International Affairs Club (KUTHIA), diplomacy should not feel distant or reserved only for professionals. It should be something people especially young people can understand, relate to, and take part in. This idea is central to what KUTHIA stands for.

KUTHIA believes in developing diplomatic thinking, not just preparing individuals for diplomatic titles. Many young people may never work as diplomats, yet they still engage with international issues through learning, discussion, communication, and community involvement. When regional cooperation and international affairs are explained in clear and accessible ways, diplomacy becomes real and meaningful in everyday life.

For youth, participation starts when policies are communicated openly and simply. When ASEAN’s visions and initiatives are linked to familiar spaces such as universities, communities, and digital platforms, young people are more willing and able to contribute. In this way, diplomacy moves beyond institutions and becomes something young people can connect with and feel part of.

 

Mission and Vision:

KUTHIA places importance on creating equal opportunities for young people to learn about diplomacy through real experiences. By opening spaces for youth to observe, engage with, and learn from diplomatic practices, we help narrow the gap between policy discussions and society. This kind of engagement builds a sense of responsibility and ownership, which is essential for long-term sustainable development.

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Their message to the policymakers:

When young people feel included in regional processes, sustainability is no longer an abstract concept. It becomes a shared responsibility that can be acted upon today.

Ultimately, diplomacy should not exist only in formal settings. It should be a process that invites participation and empowers young people to play an active role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future for ASEAN. This is the vision that KUTHIA continues to promote.

 

 

Follow ku_thaiinternationalaffairs for updates, events, and student-led diplomacy in action.