The Nationality Law Clinic at the School of Law, University of Phayao, serves as a learning space and legal consultation center aimed at supporting students and members of the public who face challenges related to legal status and Thai nationality. The clinic seeks to reduce inequality in access to legal rights while promoting public understanding of nationality law and related legal procedures.

The initiative originated from the teaching experience of Assistant Professor Narissara prasitthipanwang of the School of Law at the University of Phayao. While teaching international law, particularly topics related to personal status, she discovered that some students studying at the university did not yet hold Thai nationality and often sought guidance on how to apply for it. What began as individual consultations gradually spread through word of mouth among students, leading to a growing number of individuals seeking advice. This development eventually inspired the creation of a more systematic support mechanism.

Between 2022 and 2023, a project to develop academic and professional collaboration networks for addressing legal status issues among students received support from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (Thai Health). A survey conducted during the project found that approximately 50 students at the University of Phayao faced challenges related to their civil registration status. However, because nationality and legal status are sensitive issues, many students were initially reluctant to disclose their situations. Building trust therefore became a key part of the process. Activities involving student participation, including peer support initiatives, helped create a supportive environment where students could share experiences and seek assistance more confidently. Over time, more students came forward for consultation, and several were able to successfully complete the process of applying for Thai nationality.

Following the success of the initial project phase, the initiative was further developed into the Nationality Law Clinic as a permanent service under the School of Law. The clinic was also recognized as one of the University of Phayao’s official Learning Spaces through the Learning Space program, highlighting its role as a platform for knowledge sharing and community engagement.

The clinic’s approach goes beyond providing one-time legal consultations. It emphasizes knowledge sharing and empowerment, helping individuals understand their legal status, the legal pathways available to them, and the documentation and procedures required for nationality applications. By providing clear information and guidance, the clinic enables students and community members to navigate the legal process more effectively and confidently.

In addition to providing consultation services, the clinic has established collaborative networks with universities and relevant organizations at both provincial and regional levels. These partnerships help facilitate the exchange of knowledge, improve coordination in addressing legal status issues, and strengthen broader efforts to promote legal awareness and access to justice.

The Nationality Law Clinic also serves as an experiential learning platform for law students. Through involvement in real cases and community-based legal work, students develop analytical skills, gain practical legal experience, and deepen their understanding of the role of law in promoting human rights and social justice.

More than just a legal consultation service, the Nationality Law Clinic at the University of Phayao represents a space of opportunity and hope. By helping individuals understand their rights and legal options, the clinic contributes to improving quality of life and expanding access to justice for those facing challenges related to nationality and legal status.

Individuals seeking legal consultation can contact the Law Clinic, School of Law, University of Phayao, located on the first floor of the Phukamyao Learning Building. The clinic can be reached at +66 54 466 666 ext. 1619 or +66 83 256 6446. Services are available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and legal consultations are provided free of charge to support public access to legal knowledge and rights.

Source by :

Asst.Prof. Narissara prasitthipanwang

School of Law, University of Phayao.