As part of efforts to reduce the use of amulets made from endangered elephant and tigers, WildAid, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) are launching a campaign called “A good life is free of killing #ชีวิตดีต้องไร้ฆ่า” featuring spiritual and key opinion leaders.  In a video, the Venerable Phramedhivajirodom (V.Vajiramedhi), a highly respected Thai Buddhist monk; actress “Top” Daraneenute Pasutanavin; and Thai actor and director Bhin Banloerit, call on the public to avoid using “good luck charms” made from threatened wildlife for those that may otherwise use them in their spiritual practices.

U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter announced a Disaster Declaration, and the immediate release of $100,000 in emergency relief in flood-affected areas of southern Laos.  The people of the United States are concerned about the ongoing floods in southern Laos and are proud to support the people of the Lao PDR during this difficult time.