Thailand - Multi-sector Rapid Needs Assessment and Post-Distribution Monitoring of Cash-Based Intervention - Round 1, May 2020

The Rapid Needs Assessment (RNA)/Cash-Based Intervention Post-Distribution (CBI PDM) Monitoring Household Survey was conducted in Thailand in May 2020. The RNA and PDM were designed as a phone-based survey targeting urban refugees and asylum seekers in Thailand to assess their needs and evaluate the effectiveness of the CBI program in light of COVID-19.

UNHCR Thailand and its partners work to ensure that the protection needs of urban refugees and asylum seekers are met during the COVID-19 pandemic. Having observed increased levels of vulnerability relating to restrictions on movement, loss of livelihood opportunities and access to healthcare, the RNA aims to strengthen the understanding of the situation, need and vulnerabilities of the forced displaced population. This survey focuses on COVID-19 knowledge, experience, behaviour and norms, health, education, employment and access to basic necessities. The findings aim to provide evidence to evaluate and design protection and programme interventions.

Since May 2016, UNHCR Thailand has been using multi-purpose CBI PDM to provide protection, assistance and services to the most vulnerable refugees in the urban areas. The number of urban refugees approaching UNHCR for financial support has more than doubled since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. To ensure that UNHCR’s multi purpose CBI framework for urban refugees in Thailand is effective, the monitoring was conducted simultaneously with the RNA. PDM is a mechanism to collect and understand refugees' feedback on the quality, sufficiency, utilization and effectiveness of the cash assistance. The findings of the PDM support the assessment of the impact of CBI for urban refugees in Thailand affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the appropriateness of funding levels, distribution modalities and the use of cash to support refugees.