In Thailand, wild elephants benefit from legal protection, but domestic elephants often suffer harsh conditions. Considered livestock and trained through violence, some die from mistreatment.
Since 1992, a remarkable woman, Sangduen Chailert — known as “Lek” — has fought to change this. Born into a marginalized hill tribe, she founded the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary where abused elephants receive care and respect. Thanks to her, dozens of elephants regain dignity and sometimes return to the forest.
Lek also champions women’s and minority rights. Honored as Time magazine’s Asian Hero of the Year in 2004, her relentless fight continues for a fairer future.
