Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha Passes at 47

Princess Bajrakitiyabha’s Death

Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol of Thailand died at age 47, according to the Bureau of the Royal Household. Her death occurred in a Bangkok hospital following a three-year illness. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed deep sorrow, describing the princess as a pride of Thailand whose legacy of kindness, justice, and equality will guide future generations.

Royal Funeral Arrangements

The princess will lie in state at Bangkok’s Grand Palace. Her funeral will follow royal traditions. The statement also reported her condition worsened in May, requiring medical support for lung and kidney functions.

Public Mourning and Sympathy

Many gathered at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital to grieve. Mourners carried pictures of the princess, reflecting on her life and contributions. Pattamaporn Kaewkityakorn, a mourner, expressed her sadness and shock.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha’s Life and Work

Princess Bajrakitiyabha was known for her reform efforts in justice, especially the Kamlangjai project for rehabilitating incarcerated Thai women. Her educational background includes a law degree from Thammasat University and further studies at Cornell University in New York. She earned her master’s and doctoral degrees there, focusing on the rights of the accused.

Her career included roles as a public prosecutor and Thailand’s ambassador to Austria. She also served as a U.N. goodwill ambassador. Her efforts significantly impacted women’s rights and justice reform, most notably through the “Bangkok Rules” adopted by the U.N. General Assembly.

Family and Legacy

Bajrakitiyabha was born to Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn and his then-wife, Princess Soamsawali, in 1978. She was the eldest child among seven siblings. King Vajiralongkorn’s youngest child, Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti, is the presumptive heir. Though Bajrakitiyabha’s contributions sparked speculation about her role in succession, her focus on legal and diplomatic work left a lasting impact. She leaves behind her parents and siblings.