Homelessness is not a new social ‘problem’ in Thailand.

The poor are often subjected to societal condemnation and discrimination. Being poor and homeless places one in a vulnerable state – one that has no access to basic rights and basic needs.

Poverty does not discriminate. It affects Thais, refugees, migrant workers and the stateless.

Many Thai NGOs struggle to provide care and support for marginalised communities. Severe funding cuts, overzealous bureaucratic processes and the economic uncertainty are among the many reasons that prevent civil society from effectively improving the quality of life for the poor and needy. It doesn’t help the situation when there is a growing political climate of uncertainty, courtesy of a failed road-map and deeply divided political scene. All these contribute to the failures of NGOs. We are seeing the present rate of homeless ‘problems’ accelerated for the past three years.

Its challenging for local NGOs to influence authorities, particularly decision-makers, to enable marginalised communities to participate in improving and evaluating present policies related to welfare, poverty-reduction, housing and health care. The present administration subscribes to the top-down approach. And if this continues, more and more people will experience extreme hardship, whether its on Bangkok streets or the trok (alley) labyrinths of Thailand.

Homelessness is a complex issue without a quick or one-size-fits-all solution, however we could start with kindness.