JAILCD2026-019: Why Universities Succeed as Disaster Relief Hubs in Thailand

Abstract

Universities in Thailand have become highly effective public spaces for disaster relief for several key reasons. In the absence of disasters, most government-owned universities' spaces are open to the public. They are well known as recreational places for locals, for example, Angkeaw's pavilion at Chiang Mai University turn to be check point for Covid-19 during 2019-2020 and university dormitory turn to be shelter for local. A crucial factor is community involvement. Many universities maintain long term relationships with communities around and in the eyes of national level disaster can be the place people relies on for example Thammasat University's active engagement during the 2011 floods, and PSU (Prince of Songkhla University) for flood relief and immediate shelter in southern Thailand 2025 which significantly strengthened public trust and support. As a result, universities are seen as reliable and capable actors in times of disaster. During disasters, such as floods, air pollution, Thai universities often provide superior facilities, greater accessibility, and the ability to mobilize volunteers, all of which enhance response effectiveness rapidly.