NGOs Effectiveness in Fostering the Needs of Statelessness in Thailand

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to examine the effectiveness of NGOs like The Mirror Foundation in fostering the needs of stateless individuals in Thailand. Statelessness has been a significant problem in Thailand, leaving millions without Thai nationality. There are many NGOs that are working in attempt to solve the problem of statelessness. This research goal will be examining what NGOs need to do to be effective in helping stateless individuals and identifying the problems that arises with being stateless. The method that will be use is the framework provided by the United Nation High Commissioner for Refugee (UNHCR). The UNHCR identified 4 criterias that NGOs can follow, which are Identification, Prevention, Reduction and Protection when attempting to resolve the stateless problem. The Mirror Foundation has used this framework effectively in order to solve the problems in the community of Mae Yao, Chiang Rai and the village of BanDan. This research hopes to bring awareness on statelessness in Thailand and how to effectively approach the problem of statelessness. In addition, to promote further research on other ways NGOs can effectively foster the needs of stateless individuals in Thailand.