 |
Mechai Viravaidya | |
|---|---|
มีชัย วีระไวทยะ | |
 Mechai in 2008 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 17 January 1941 Bangkok, Siam |
| Nationality | Thai |
| Spouse | Thanpuying Putrie Viravaidya |
| Children | Sujima Saengchaiwuttikun |
| Alma mater | International House, Melbourne |
Mechai Viravaidya (born 17 January 1941, Thai: มีชัย วีระไวทยะ; RTGS: Michai Wirawaithaya) is a former politician and activist in Thailand known for promoting condoms, family planning, and AIDS awareness.[1] Since the 1970s, Mechai has been affectionately called "Mr. Condom", and condoms are often referred to as "mechais" in Thailand.[2] From the time that he began his work, the average number of children in Thai families has decreased from 7 to 1.5.[3] He has been credited with leading efforts that improved the lives of millions of people.[4]
- ^ Mechai Viravaidya, 60 Years of Asian Heroes, Time Asia, 13 November 2006
- ^ Pesek, William Jr. (21 April 2005). "Six influential Asians changing their part of the world". Bloomberg News. Retrieved 18 June 2015.
- ^ TED Talk, 7 October 2010
- ^ Mydans, Seth (5 August 2022). "'Captain Condom' Turned the Tide in Thailand's War on AIDS and Overpopulation". The New York Times.