UNAIDS in Asia and the Pacific is deeply saddened by the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati. On behalf of UNAIDS, I extend my deepest condolences to His Majesty the King, the Royal Family, the Government and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Her Royal Highness will be remembered for her distinguished public service and steadfast commitment to justice, human dignity and the well-being of people.

Her compassion and dedication to people whose needs and rights are too often overlooked will continue to inspire people across Thailand and the wider region.

UNAIDS recalls with gratitude Her Royal Highness’s engagement with the United Nations and her efforts to advance the rights and dignity of women and people in vulnerable situations. Her leadership helped draw attention to the links between violence, inequality and HIV, and to the importance of regional cooperation in protecting health and human rights.

UNAIDS also recognizes the Royal Family’s longstanding support for the HIV response, including the leadership of Her Royal Highness Princess Soamsawali Krom Muen Suddhanarinatha, UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for HIV Prevention for Asia and the Pacific.

Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha leaves a lasting legacy of service, empathy and inclusion. The entire UNAIDS family stands in solidarity with the Royal Family and the people of Thailand and joins them in mourning this profound loss.

Eamonn Murphy
UNAIDS Regional Director for Asia-Pacific and Eastern Europe and Central Asia