TIJ has been sending delegations to participate in the CCPCJ since 2013. The purpose is to exchange knowledge and practices on crime prevention and criminal justice at the international level. Today, TIJ Newsletter had the opportunity to interviews some of the TIJ delegations including Nichapa Limsiritong, Policy Coordination Officer of the Office of External Relations and Policy Coordination and Chaat Sathirathaya, Policy Advocacy Assistant of the Office for the Bangkok Rules and Treatment of Offenders, who shared theirs interesting experiences from the 32nd session of the CCPCJ.
"Joining the CCPCJ realized me that promoting better crime prevention and criminal justice system is an integral component of the rule of law. One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked is the human rights," Nichapa stated.
"The event provided me with networking opportunities by allowing me to meet new people in the criminal justice field through exhibitions and interactions with individuals in side events. This interaction could potentially lead to greater collaboration with other organizations and countries." Chaat said.
Before embarking on the trip to attend the event, what were your expectations and hopes for the work?
Nichapa: I desired to gain insights on the global situation,recent crime trends and the practical solutions to cope with the challenges in justice system. Additionally, I hoped that TIJ's presentations at the CCPCJ would play a significant role in driving future efforts in crime prevention and criminal justice on various dimensions within the global community.
Chaat: My expectation was centered around the exhibition I was responsible for, which I hoped would bruung in numerous visitors and create a good impression on them. Overall, I was hoping for seamless execution of my tasks according to plan, among other factors.
After participating in the CCPCJ event, were there any impressive moments or did it meet your expectations?
Nichapa: I witnessed the awakening of an international community coming together to address challenges related to crime and criminal justice, leading to the exploration of new approaches in prevention, response, and management of these challenges. This includes the advancement of the implementation of international standards and norms, as well as the proposal for cross-border collaboration in specific areas.
Chaat: I was impressed with the valuable experience I gained, including working in new environments and visiting new places, as well as experience first-hand the functioning of a UN body and its processes. I appreciated the authenticity and openness of my colleagues and the adults at TIJ.
Are there any activities or information that you feel are unique to the CCPCJ event and how do you plan to build upon them in future endeavors?
Nichapa: Joining the CCPCJ realized me that promoting better crime prevention and criminal justice system is an integral component of the rule of law. One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked is the human rights, which is already embedded in the work of TIJ, particularly in the concept of "people-centered justice." TIJ, along with the global community, aspires to push forward this agenda. It is important to note that addressing these issues cannot be achieved by silo approach. Collaboration between all sectors including public, private, and society is important and need to be aware of. This reflects TIJ's motto, "justice is everyone's matter," emphasizing the role and responsibility of everyone in society to promote better justice. Collaborative and innovative justice for all shall be continued to promote and strengthen in an international level.
Chaat: The event provided me with networking opportunities by allowing me to meet new people in the criminal justice field through exhibitions and interactions with individuals in side events. This interaction could potentially lead to greater collaboration with other organizations and countries.
Did you have conversations or create connections with other participants? How did it happen?
Nichapa: There were opportunities for exchanging ideas and engaging in activities of TIJ. For instance, Indonesia organized an exhibition on promoting restorative justice, showcasing their keen interest and focus on the matter during the CCPCJ. We, thus, have an opportunity to exchange our work on restorative justice and explore collaboration to drive this agenda further.
Chaat: I had conversations with other participants by showing them the exhibition and participating in Side Events to learn new information from their research.
Do you have any suggestions or recommendations for individuals who may attend or participate in such events in the future?
Nichapa: It is important to monitor the progress and interests of member states especially on the issues of their concern. This can help in identifying the opportunities for expanding collaboration further.
Chaat: Prepare for a very taxing time, yet view it as an opportunity to gather valuable experiences and cultivate professional networks. You will have the privilege of witnessing diverse global processes that you may not have encountered before.
