From 22 to 24 April 2025, the Regional Laboratory on Urban Governance for Health and Well-being (RL-UGHW), in collaboration with Khon Kaen University, the Department of Health, and with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), hosted a dynamic three-day workshop in Pattaya, Chonburi Province, Thailand. Building on earlier capacity-building efforts in Khon Kaen, the workshop gathered over 80 public health leaders, municipal representatives, and urban health experts from eight Thai cities: Ban Phai, Huana Kham, Kalasin, Khao Suan Kwang, Khon Kaen, Kuchinarai, Mahasarakham, and Roi Et. The focus was on advancing sustainable, community-driven urban health initiatives.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Jos Vandelaer, WHO Representative to Thailand and Ms. Naiyana Chaitiemwong, Director of the Health Impact Assessment Division. They outlined the objectives and vision of promoting healthier cities across the region.
Key sessions included:
- An overview of the WHO Healthy City Project by Ms. Thanatport Rawanghet (WHO Thailand), offering global and local perspectives.
- Updates on the WHO Regional Healthy City Network for Southeast Asia, shared by RL-UGHW representatives.
- An introduction to the WHO UrbanLEAD platform for Healthy City Development Planning, presented by Asst. Prof. Pattamaporn Wongwiriya, Ph.D.
Participants engaged in interactive activities such as Fishbone Analysis, Stakeholder Mapping, and Feasibility Analysis. These sessions enabled cities to identify root causes of local health challenges, map key stakeholders, and develop practical, action-oriented City Project Plans tailored to their unique contexts.
On the second day, participants learned best practices shared by Ban Suan Municipality, recognized as an award-winning city within the WHO Healthy Cities Network. In the afternoon, a study visit to Khlong Tamru Municipality highlighted innovative community initiatives including effective management of the Community Waste Bank Fund, which helps improve the quality of life for bedridden patients, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable groups. This visit offered valuable inspiration for participants aiming to implement similar models in their own cities.
The final day centered on action and collaboration. Each city presented its customized City Project Plan, demonstrating clear strategies for building healthier urban environments. A session led by RL-UGHW representatives guided participants on the next steps for joining or advancing within the WHO Healthy Cities Network.
Closing remarks from the representative of the Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health, emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration and innovation to foster healthier, more inclusive cities.
This workshop marked a significant step forward in promoting healthy urban development across Thailand and the Southeast Asian region. The commitment and creativity shown by all participants will help drive positive change and strengthen local capacities for sustainable urban health.
We sincerely thank all participants, speakers, and partners for their dedication and contribution. Stay connected with us as we continue building healthier, more resilient cities together. 💚🌏
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