On 16-17 June 2022, IOM, in partnership with the Department of Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation (DDPM), conducted a two-day tabletop simulation exercise on Migrant-inclusive Collective Centre Management in Bangkok, Thailand.  Representatives from 12 provinces across Thailand - DDPM, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), and Thai Red Cross Society - participated in the exercise. 

The exercise targeted frontline responders to emergency situations and was designed to allow them to share their experiences and promote joint learning within different agencies of the Royal Thai Government. The exercises focused on the set-up and daily management of Collective Centres - designated areas for disaster-affected communities to take shelter - ensuring the centres are inclusive to the needs of migrants and other vulnerable groups. 

“The simulation exercise helped us understand the work undertaken by different agencies in responding to an emergency and helps promote a whole-of-government approach to emergency response,” said Ms Paorumpai Junya from DDPM and Ms Suwapa Thabthiang from MSDHS as they shared their experiences. 

The simulation also focused on challenges faced by migrant workers and vulnerable communities during the distribution of food and non-food items and ways to ensure equal participation in Collective Centres during emergencies.

Ms Paorumpai Junya emphasized how the simulation will help the government ensure policies set up to address disasters, consider various facets of the situation and provide a comprehensive response to an emergency. Ms Nangnoi Juthaisong from the Thai Red Cross Society underscored the importance of the simulation exercises to prepare for the day-to-day operations of collective shelters in providing for the needs of vulnerable communities.

By sharing experiences and collectively deciding on mitigation measures for multifaceted needs, frontline responders learn from each other on how to provide support to migrants and other vulnerable groups in a humane and equitable manner by prioritizing their protection needs. 

This activity is implemented under the IOM Asia Regional Migration Program, funded by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Populations, Refugees and Migration.