Bangkok, April 16, 2025 – Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been selected as one of the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Young Global Leaders (YGL) for 2025, joining an elite group of 114 trailblazers under 40 recognized for their transformative leadership and global impact.
Chosen through a global nomination process, the 38-year-old prime minister is part of a diverse cohort of 116 leaders from government, business, academia, arts, and civil society, representing over 120 countries. The YGL program, established in 2004 by WEF founder Klaus Schwab, fosters teamwork among emerging leaders to address pressing global challenges, with a network of over 1,400 members worldwide.
Paetongtarn’s inclusion shows her administration’s ambitious agenda, including the 30-Baht Universal Healthcare Anywhere program, a digital wallet initiative to boost Thailand’s economy, and measures to tackle social issues like call center scams and drug trafficking. As chair of the Thai Soft Power Committee, she has elevated Thailand’s global cultural presence, notably by securing international recognition for the Songkran Festival. Her leadership was prominently showcased at the WEF 2025 Annual Meeting in Davos, where she positioned Thailand as a prime investment hub in agriculture, creative industries, and sustainability.
“Prime Minister Paetongtarn exemplifies the innovative and inclusive leadership needed to shape a better future,” said a WEF spokesperson. “Her vision for Thailand and commitment to global collaboration make her a standout in this year’s YGL cohort.”
The 2025 YGL Class includes other notable figures such as Ireland’s Taoiseach Simon Harris, OYO founder Ritesh Agarwal, and South African artist Nomzamo Mbatha.
Paetongtarn’s recognition follows her inclusion in TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People and Forbes’ 2024 list of the World’s Most Powerful Women, where she ranked 29th globally and third in Asia. As Thailand’s youngest-ever prime minister, her ascent continues to draw international attention.
For more information on the Young Global Leaders program, visit the World Economic Forum’s official website.
Pictures: Paetongtarn enjoying the recent Thai New Year Festival in Chiang Mai.
