Thailand to Host International Conference on Combating Online Fraud

Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently organized a lecture for the diplomatic corps focused on combating online fraud, as part of Thailand's preparations to host a significant global cooperation meeting on the issue. The meeting is scheduled for December 17-18 in Bangkok, signaling the country's commitment to addressing the challenge of transnational crime. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, informed the diplomatic corps about the upcoming international conference titled "International Conference on Global Partnership against Online Scams." The initiative, endorsed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, was highlighted during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. Mr. Vijavat emphasized the critical nature of online fraud and transnational crime, which have become pervasive global issues affecting individuals, businesses, and governments. Mr. Vijavat pointed out that fraudulent activities have expanded rapidly in Southeast Asia and beyon d, forming complex networks involved in cybercrime, human trafficking, financial fraud, and money laundering. These sophisticated operations pose significant security, social, and economic challenges, undermining human rights and public confidence in governance. Acknowledging the intricate and cross-border nature of online fraud, Thailand's government has prioritized combatting cybercrime. The Prime Minister's declaration at the 47th ASEAN Summit underscored this commitment, with Thailand offering to spearhead international efforts by hosting the upcoming conference. Mr. Wichawat further elaborated on Thailand's urgency in addressing online fraud, noting that the conference aims to enhance international cooperation in tackling transnational crime. This initiative builds on previous cooperative efforts, such as the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur and the United Nations Convention on Cybercrime signing ceremony in Hanoi. The Royal Thai Police recently hosted the 43rd ASEANAPOL Conference in Bangkok, adopt ing the 'Bangkok Joint Declaration on Eliminating Fraud Centers Associated with Human Trafficking for Crime.' Additionally, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society leads the ASEAN Working Group on Combating Online Fraud. The international meeting is set to strengthen global cooperation against online fraud, focusing on experience exchange, best practices, and coordinated international responses to prevent and prosecute fraud-related crimes. It aims to protect victims of human trafficking and ensure justice for those impacted by online fraud.