Diversity in Thailand
Diversity & Inclusion
Excited for your trip to Thailand? We are too! Traveling overseas, especially for the first time, is an exciting experience. However, as an international college student, it's important to remember that you are a representative of your home country. To counter negative stereotypes, it's crucial to exhibit kindness, respect, and consideration towards others. Also, show that you are environmentally conscious and knowledgeable about other cultures. Be open-minded, learn about the local culture, and make an effort to adapt to the local lifestyle. Finally, be conscious of your behavior and treat everyone with respect. By doing so, you can challenge and break down negative stereotypes and make a positive impact.
Racially and Ethnically Diverse Students
Underrepresented students in higher education in the US may face similar challenges while studying or interning abroad. It is important to keep in mind that while you may be classified by your ethnicity in the US, abroad you may be initially identified as an American or something else entirely. This means that the people you interact with may have pre-existing opinions and be eager to share them with you.
Race and Ethnic Identity in Thailand
In general, racial discrimination has a different appearance in Thailand than in the US. There are many ethnic groups within Thailand, some of whom have deep histories tied to the region, others who have recently created communities in Thailand, or are expats and international students like CIS Abroad participants.
There are over 70 recognized, distinct ethnic groups in Thailand, the top five in population size are: Tais (the majority ethnic group), Chinese (primarily Teochew), Malays, Khmer, and Karen. Other groups include Hmong, Pakistani, Vietnamese, or more. Some ethnic minority groups in Thailand have faced racial discrimination and internal displacement as the result of conflicts in Southeast Asia and the greater region.
Bangkok has always been a very diverse city with populations from China, Malaysia, Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam and many other countries making up key parts of the population since its founding.
Beauty Standards in Thailand
Thai beauty standards are driven by a few different factors. Rich people in Thailand are often of Chinese background and may have lighter skin. There is also lots of interest in South Korean media and personalities who also often have a lighter skin color. More prestigious jobs allow people to work inside, away from the sun, so the thought is the better the job, the lighter the skin. These factors all create a perception of light skin being more attractive. This is changing with a new generation of Thais, but many beauty products in Thailand are 'whitening" and many Thais try to stay out of the sun as much as possible.
Black, Indigenous, and PoC Students
Thais do not have the historical context around race that you might find in Europe or the US. You may hear Thai people use the word "negro"; this is an imported word and one which Thai people often do not understand the connotations or historical usage abroad.
They may, however, be curious about people of a different appearance. For example, African American or black students may hear comments about their skin color or hair. Thais are often very blunt about appearance. Thais often aspire to have a light skin color and there are many whitening skin care products in Thailand. Over the last few years, this attitude has been changing, but it is still quite common. For this reason, students may consider bringing their own beauty and hair products with them.
Asian American students may be treated as Thas and often get confused looks when they can't speak Thai, or they maybe perceived as the main representative for a group of students, simply because they are Asian. You can say 'Phut Thai Mai Dai" I can't speak Thai or "Mai Chai Khun Thai" I'm not Thai. Thais may also expect Asian American students to more closely follow cultural norms and rules, especially in regards to seniority and group orientation, among other things.
Thais generally have limited awareness of Latin Americans. Students from this cultural background may face questions about their home background, but this is generally just curiosity.
LGBTQIA+ in Thailand
Thailand has never had serious discrimination for LGBTQI+ individuals. Buddhism does not have moral absolutes and teaches us not to judge others, as we are all on our own personal journey. This leads to Thais generally respecting other people and rarely see things as good or bad.
While Thailand is overwhelmingly safe for LGBTQI+ individuals, there are still some legal barriers. Gay marriage has not been legalized, although that looks likely to change in 2024. People cannot change their gender on their national ID cards, and to adopt children, parents must be a same-sex couple. There are also social pressures that make it hard for queer individuals to feel successful in Thai culture, which leads to high levels of mental health issues.
Queer culture in Thailand's major cities boast vibrant queer communities, complete with lively gay districts featuring a plethora of pubs, bars, cafes, and clubs. Key areas to explore includes Silom and other areas, but without the need for safe spaces, there are less gay districts than in other countries.
Creating Safe Spaces: Inclusivity and Confidentiality
We take pride in ensuring that all of our offices are secure and welcoming environments for everyone. Our goal is to foster a sense of inclusivity and confidentiality. If you have specific housing needs, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate them. Additionally, we offer recommendations for LGBTQ+ community activities and events in and around Thailand. For those in need, we also provide access to professional counseling and health services.
Religious Diversity
Within Thailand, most people are Buddhist, with a sizable Muslim population as well. There are also large Hindu, Sikh and Christian populations in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
While in Thailand, you will find a variety of places of worship where people can gather with many more than 500 churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues.
Resources:
Below are some religious resources available for students in Thailand. This is not an exhaustive list, and if you have more questions either before or during your time abroad, please ask!
Christian Resources:
Assumption Cathedral
https://maps.app.goo.gl/JzeAPJVC8yh24Dix9
Christian Bible Baptist Church
https://maps.app.goo.gl/kmwpNWeLR2nF3Ndb6
Muslim Resources:
Bangkok has hundreds of mosques both Shi'ite and Sunni, and within Thailand there are over 2,000 mosques.
Jewish Resources:
Even Chen Synagogue
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jF8EiLRJ7WeyBjox8
Beth Elisheva Synagogue/The Jewish Association of Thailand
https://maps.app.goo.gl/vPp9yP5jKAcb9w7T8
Accessibility
At our program, we believe that every student should have equal access to study abroad opportunities, and many students with various disabilities have had successful and meaningful experiences in the past.
While Thailand generally has accessible transportation and resources, you may still face challenges if you have a disability. Keep in mind that apartments and elevators may be smaller, and there can be uneven streets and sidewalks, which may be particularly challenging for students with mobility difficulties. However, do not let these challenges discourage you from pursuing your study abroad dream. With a little extra patience, you can still have the experience you desire.
Preparing for Your Study Abroad Experience
Maximizing your study abroad experience starts before you even leave. It's important to be open and honest with our advisors and staff about any specific needs you may have. This can include accommodations in the classroom, transportation, meals, support, housing, and more. By sharing this information with us ahead of time, we can work to ensure that the program is tailored to meet your individual needs.
Check out abroadwithdisabilities.org for helpful tips on preparing for your trip and consider applying for a Passport Scholarship.
Resources