Dr Lalivan Karnchanachari, Thai Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs: A Champion of Women Empowerment
By Kathleen Pokrud
Dr Lalivan Karnchanachari moved from the Ministry of Culture to be posted as vice minister of Foreign Affairs early this year. Over the past four decades, Dr Lalivan has built a proven record, championing women empowerment while serving in both the public and private sectors. Elite+ sat down with the vice minister to talk about her passions and learn how she has managed to find a balance between her grueling work schedule and personal family life.
Dr Lalivan’s background in International relations and cultural diplomacy has laid a strong foundation for her professional work throughout the years. She shared, “Prior to joining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I held leadership roles in cultural and women’s advocacy organizations, which helped form my approach to diplomacy and policy-making.”
Before becoming vice minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Lalivan was the vice minister of the Ministry of Culture. She admitted that this previous role helped her to transition to her current post. “Serving as vice minister for Culture allowed me to understand the importance of soft power and cultural diplomacy in shaping international relations. The experience taught me how national identity and cultural heritage can be powerful tools in foreign policy. This understanding has been vital in my current role, where cultural exchange often paves the way for diplomatic dialogue.”
Dr Lalivan is a well-known advocate for women’s empowerment. She has proudly continued to incorporate this advocacy into her roles as a vice minister for Culture and Foreign Affairs. “Women’s empowerment is a central theme in all of my work. At both ministries, I have initiated programmes aimed at increasing female representation and leadership. Internationally, I have promoted gender equality in diplomatic forums and encouraged bilateral collaborations that focus on empowering women through education, entrepreneurship and culture exchange.”
To further promote gender equality, Dr Lalivan has set some priorities on this issue while working with many foundations and organisations. “My priorities include education for girls, economic empowerment for women and legal protections against gender-based violence. Working with foundations has allowed me to implement grassroots initiatives that bring real change to communities. Collaboration ensures a holistic approach to achieving gender equality and sustainable development.
“In addition, through my work in a charitable organisation, the Krittanusorn Foundation under Royal Patronage, which was established in 1980, I serve as a vice president. This foundation provides scholarships to the children of soldiers, police officers and volunteers who have been injured, disabled or lost their lives in the line of duty to protect our country.
“I have been inspired by my mother, Khunying Sawali Cholvijarn, the founder of the foundation whom I deeply admire and follow as my role model. This work reflects my deep commitment to honouring the sacrifices of public servants by ensuring educational opportunities for their next generation.
“Furthermore, I have served as president of English-Speaking Union Thailand (ESU), which was established nearly 25 years ago and continues to organise an annual national Public Speaking Competition for students. The national winner is awarded the opportunity to represent Thailand in the International Public Speaking Competition in the United Kingdom, helping to build confidence, provide global exposure and encourage the development of English communication skills in our young leaders of the future.”
Currently, Dr Lalivan serves as the president of the Business and Professional Women’s Association of Thailand under the Royal patronage of Her Majesty the Queen. She believes that successful female business leaders can contribute to developing local communities in Thailand. “Outstanding women entrepreneurs are powerful role models who can inspire and mentor others. Their business ventures often reinvest in communities, create jobs and support local economies. Through the association, we promote entrepreneurship, leadership training and access to funding, which are keys to community growth.”
With her strenuous professional and charitable work demands, Dr Lalivan shared how she has been able to balance her career and personal life. “Balance comes from clarity of purpose and effective time management. I prioritise my responsibilities and ensure that I allocate quality time to both work and family. Although, I work in various fields, I am also involved in social work with several organisations. I am fortunate that support from a dedicated team and family makes it all possible.”
On this subject, Dr Lalivan wants to encourage mothers to teach important life lessons to their children and future generations. “I believe in leading by example. As a mother, I believe that the values we instil in our children today will shape the world of tomorrow. It is vital to raise children with strong values that will guide them through life. Important lessons include: integrity, empathy, responsibility, resilience, gender equality and work ethics. These lessons can shape strong, thoughtful, future generations.”
She then added vision for a more gender-equal world. “My vision is one where opportunities are not defined by gender but by merit and potential. I see a world where inclusive policies, equitable education and equal representation in leadership are the norm. We must continue to challenge stereotypes and promote gender-sensitive governance.”
As the interview drew to a close, Dr Lalivan commented compassionately, “Change begins with awareness and action. Each of us has a role to play in shaping a more equitable world. I encourage readers to be proactive in their communities, support one another and never underestimate the power of empathy and collaboration.”
