Owing to rapid growth of its gross domestic product, Thailand — currently the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia — has been able to significantly reduce poverty levels and increase the overall standard living in the country.
Severe flooding in 2011 and persistent political unrest in the capital, however, have slowed down growth. And although poverty levels are down, there remain pockets of destitution. The northeastern region, for example, is home to 40 percent of Thailand’s poorest people. Agriculture is the main driver of the remote and rural region’s economy. Environmental degradation and an aging population are also major concerns.
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About the author
Dorcas Juliette Ramos- Caraig
As development analyst, Dorcas studies bilateral and multilateral donors’ partnership strategies and writes country-level reports that highlight priority sectors and annual funding allocations. She also monitors pipeline opportunities and trends from donor agencies such as the ADB, DAFTD Canada and NADB. She is currently taking her master’s degree at the University of the Philippines, specializing in Asian foreign relations. Prior to joining Devex, Dorcas worked as a researcher at government institutions.
