Nation-Building Lifetime Achievement Award (People Sector)
Mr. Mechai Viravaidya
Founder and executive director of the Population and Development Association (PDA)
Mr. MechaiViravaidya, the founder and executive director of the Population and Development Association (PDA) in Bangkok, Thailand. He is widely credited for the sharp decrease in fertility in Thailand as well as the dramatic rise in safe sex. He also focused on rural development initiatives to empower the poor to eradicate poverty. He has devoted a significant portion of his efforts towards youth philanthropy and education through the MechaiViravaidya Foundation.He has truly proven to be a man of great integrity who uses his wisdom with virtue.