Bangkok:Thailand has been honored with the Asian-level Collective Housing Award 2026, recognizing its outstanding achievements in community-managed housing projects. Mr. Yotsanu Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, presided over the award ceremony during the International Seminar held on World Habitat Day.
According to Thai News Agency, the event celebrated 87 exemplary projects from various Asian countries that have successfully implemented collaborative housing management. Mr. Yotchanan emphasized the importance of addressing the lack of stable housing, which he identified as a major root cause of poverty, by moving beyond traditional methods.
Thailand's recognition as a Regional Learning Hub by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) enables the country to drive public policy across Asia. The Thai government is shifting its role from "house builder" to "facilitator," aiming to empower communities to take ownership of housing processes.
Mr. Yotsanan highlighted the government's focus on developing employment opportunities alongside housing projects. This includes leveraging science and technology from university networks to upgrade community businesses and utilizing social financial innovations to ensure fair access to funding.
Efforts are underway to scale the "Secure Housing" project to a "Secure City" initiative. This approach aims to connect community networks with local authorities, align city development with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and work towards eradicating poverty and reducing social conflict.
Additionally, Mr. Nikorn Somklang, Minister of Social Development and Human Security, stated that housing is a strategic tool for restoring human dignity. The ministry plans to expand support for vulnerable groups using green technologies and low-carbon materials, preparing for future disasters and climate change.