INEB have been instrumental in drafting a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that marks progress in our ambition to strengthen child protection in Buddhist institutions.
On 25 August 2025, the International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB) joined UNICEF Thailand, Mahidol University, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, the Bodhiyalai Foundation, and the Department of Children and Youth Affairs in signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding to protect novice monks and children in Buddhist institutions. The agreement, signed at UNICEF Thailand headquarters, represents an unprecedented step toward safeguarding the wellbeing of some of the most vulnerable children in Thai society while strengthening the credibility and moral leadership of Buddhist institutions.
INEB Secretary-General Somboon Chungprampree joined Buddhist leaders in affirming a joint commitment to ensure every child in Buddhist care receives protection, education, and dignity. The MOU sets out a collaborative framework to create a national database of stateless novice monks, deliver targeted welfare support, and establish clear child protection guidelines for Buddhist contexts.
This cooperation not only responds to urgent concerns about child safety but also demonstrates the Buddhist community’s proactive leadership in preventing harm, building public trust, and ensuring monasteries remain safe and nurturing spaces for future generations.
This meeting concluded with agreements to:
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Establish a database of stateless novice monks, categorizing them into groups to provide welfare and assistance packages.
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Draft guidelines for Child Protection in Buddhist Institutions
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