From Thailand to Switzerland: Investment Risks and Community Voices on Energy Projects

As global geopolitical instability continues to disrupt energy markets, tensions involving Iran have exposed just how vulnerable import-dependent countries like Thailand are. Disruptions along key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz have tightened oil and LNG supply, driving price volatility and reinforcing concerns around energy security across Asia.

But beyond these immediate concerns, a more fundamental question arises: What other risks are financiers overlooking in their push for energy security investments?

Are environmental and human rights considerations, often associated with large-scale energy projects, being fully assessed? Could unresolved community concerns, legal challenges, or gaps in due diligence translate into financial, regulatory, or reputational risks over time?

As global capital flows continue to shape energy systems, communities in Thailand have raised ongoing concerns about the potential impacts of projects, including gas-fired power plants, LNG terminals, hydropower projects, and waste-to-energy facilities. While many of these investments are positioned as part of the energy transition, questions remain regarding their long-term environmental and social implications.

This discussion is being held ahead of UBS’s Annual General Meeting to communicate potential risks associated with investments in Thailand’s energy sector, while underscoring the bank’s commitment to conducting business in accordance with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. The event brings together community representatives, civil society and experts to share perspectives, evidence, and lived experiences from Thailand. Speakers will examine how transnational investment flows, including those involving major financial institutions such as Swiss Bank, UBS, and their exposure to Thailand’s energy sector, may be linked to impacts on local livelihoods, ecosystems, and civic space. Stakeholders are also invited to provide their perspectives and raise any concerns with the shareholders in Thailand.

The session, in Thai and English, aims to amplify community voices on an international stage and push for stronger alignment between investment practices, human rights and climate commitments.

Join us at the FCCT or via Facebook Live to hear from:

Chiraphat Chamket, Fossil Free Thailand (Burapa campaign);

Manop Sanit, Rayong Clean Energy Network;

Sumeth Rienphongnam, Prachinburi Community Network;

Manun Wongmasoh, Greenpeace Thailand;

Mundao Kongwanarat, Solutions for our Climate;

Moderator: Kannikar Kijtiwatchakul

Register here.