A Tool for Change: Working with the Media on Issues Relating to Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Expression and Sex Characteristics in Thailand

In 2015, UNDP commissioned this study to analyze news media coverage of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or sex characteristics (SOGISC) and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) identities across media platforms in Thailand. The study has found that many Thai journalists lack knowledge and understanding regarding LGBTI people which often results in LGBTI people being presented in news media in a negative manner, differentiating them from how other people in Thai society are portrayed.

Thai media has the potential to be a powerful advocate for positive change in social attitudes, policies and programme and an effective tool for tackling stigma and discrimination. The hope is that this study will strengthen the role of media advocacy in creating an enabling environment for discussing the human rights of LGBTI people and issues of stigma and discrimination. This is essential if we are to achieve the shared goal of ensuring that 'no one is left behind'.