Bhikkhuni issue discussed in the parliament, Thailand.

The board of Senators (upper house) set up a sub-committee led by Senator Rabiebrat Pongpanit to work on fact finding on the possibility of re-establishing bhikkhuni Order in Thailand. The study group spent 6 months, recording, interviewing, researching, on the topic and came up with a draft on "Bhikkhuni" to be distributed to the public for a better understanding on the topic. The conclusion of the report expressed a support for the revival of bhikkhuni Order, and stated that it is correct and can be accepted according to the Dhammavinaya.

March 11, 2003 Mrs.Rabiebrat reported her study for an hour in one of the meeting halls within the parliament compound before opening the floor to hear feedback with comments and questions for clarification. The session was on air from 2pm-4.30 pm.

It is to be noted also that on March 8, 2003, an international women's day, Mrs Rabiebrat, the senator, was awarded by World Fellowship of Buddhists for her tireless work in supporting women and educating the public on bhikkhuni issue.

Ven.Bhikkhuni Dhammananda was also invited by the senator to witness the presentation of the report. The hall was full, majority who spoke from the audience were supportive of the issue and trusted the validity of the research done by the panel of the senatorial sub-committee.