The Promotion of Human Rights through Buddhist Teachings: An Alternative Approach to Peaceful Coexistence

Abstract

This article analyzed the human rights situation in Thailand through the lens of Buddhist principles, proposing a novel approach to promoting human rights that aligned with Thai cultural contexts. The study examined multidimensional human rights violations, encompassing the right to life, freedom of expression, and the rights of vulnerable populations, including women, children, LGBTQ+ individuals, ethnic minorities, and migrant workers. Concurrently, it integrated core Buddhist teachings-including the Five Precepts, the Four Sublime States, the Four Bases of Social Solidarity, the Law of Karma, the Seven Conditions of Welfare, the Ten Royal Virtues, and teachings on equality-to establish connections with contemporary human rights concepts. The study demonstrates that these teachings can foster a social consciousness of rights, responsibilities, and peaceful coexistence. The Buddhist principles of non-harm, loving-kindness, compassion, and respect for human dignity enhance the ethical and spiritual understanding of human rights. Integrating Buddhist teachings with human rights concepts thus provides an approach well-suited to the Thai context, particularly in addressing issues of violence, inequality, and discrimination in society. This framework promotes both individual spiritual development and structural policy advancement, ultimately contributing to a just, compassionate, and peaceful society.