The challenges of Thai NGOs in working with the stateless people | |
| Author | Narumol Rodruksa |
| Call Number | AIT RSPR no.DS-25-01 |
| Subject(s) | Non-governmental organizations--Thailand Stateless persons--Thailand |
| Note | A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Development and Sustainability |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | Statelessness remains a critical issue in Thailand, particularly in the northern region where many ethnic minorities lack legal nationality. Despite ongoing interventions, limited research has examined the organizational challenges non-governmental organizations (NGOs) face in sustainably supporting stateless populations and addressing systemic barriers. This study investigates the lived experiences of stateless individuals and analyzes the institutional and operational constraints faced by NGOs in Northern Thailand. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through in-depth interviews with stateless people and key informants from international and local NGOs. The data were analyzed using content and thematic analysis to identify recurring themes related to legal, social, and organizational challenges. The results highlight persistent obstacles, including bureaucratic delays in nationality applications, limited access to legal employment and public services, and inconsistencies in service delivery across regions. NGOs provide essential services such as legal aid, healthcare, and vocational training; however, their impact is hindered by unstable funding, limited strategic planning, and insufficient collaboration with government agencies. Furthermore, many stateless people lack awareness of their legal rights and the procedures for nationality recognition. Based on the analysis, the study proposes actionable recommendations: enhancing NGO-government collaboration, diversifying funding streams, strengthening cross sectoral coordination, and integrating psychosocial and rights-based approaches into NGO programming. These insights offer practical implications for improving policy frameworks and service delivery systems to better support stateless populations in Thailand. |
| Year | 2025 |
| Type | Research Study Project Report (RSPR) |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development |
| Department | Department of Development and Sustainability (DDS) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Development and Sustainability (DS) |
| Chairperson(s) | Ahmad, Mokbul Morshed |
| Examination Committee(s) | Kusakabe, Kyoko;Tsusaka, Takuji W. |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Royal Thai Government Fellowship |
| Degree | Research Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2025 |