Thailand is mourning the death of Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who passed away at the age of 47 after spending more than three years in a coma.
The princess died on Thursday evening at a hospital in Bangkok, according to an announcement by the Royal Household Bureau. She had remained under medical care since collapsing due to a serious illness in late 2022.
Widely respected for her public service and legal expertise, Princess Bajrakitiyabha was regarded as one of the most active and admired members of Thailand’s royal family. Her death has prompted an outpouring of grief across the country, with mourners gathering outside the hospital and royal institutions to pay tribute.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul described the late princess as “a pride of Thailand,” praising her dedication to justice, equality and social welfare. He said her work would continue to inspire future generations.
Born on December 7, 1978, Princess Bajrakitiyabha was trained as a lawyer and earned advanced legal qualifications abroad. During her career, she served in several prominent diplomatic and legal positions, including assignments at Thailand’s mission to the United Nations and as ambassador to Austria.
She was particularly known for her efforts to improve conditions for women in prison through the Kamlangjai, or “Inspire,” initiative. Her advocacy contributed to international recognition of the rights and welfare of female prisoners, including support for reforms adopted by the United Nations.
The princess was also considered an influential figure within the royal family. Constitutional changes in recent years had led some observers to view her as a potential future monarch, although royal succession in Thailand traditionally favours male heirs.
Following her passing, attention has shifted to the future of the royal succession, with her younger brother, Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti, now widely regarded as the leading heir. Her death marks the end of a distinguished life dedicated to public service, diplomacy and social justice.