The Southeast Asian landscape is changing rapidly. People are on the move. (Mega-)cities in the region are experiencing large-scale re-urbanization. Massive infrastructure projects, land grabs and environmental disasters (floods, heavy rains, landslides, erosion) force large-scale displacements of people from their habitat and communities. Not necessarily affected by war or ethnic conflict, but sometimes so, these refugees constitute a novel category, which asks for a policy response and development planning that goes beyond traditional emergency aid and humanitarian assistance. This research theme aims to articulate such policies, reflecting people’s voices from the ground and collaborating with local and international civil society and policy makers. Furthermore, it aims to map patterns of forced displacement and mobility and examine how these affect the geography of the region.

Ongoing Research

Governing the virus: Borders, Bio-power and Migrant Bodies in Thailand

This collaborative research examines and evaluates Thailand's government policies regarding Covid-19, in particular as it affects inflow and outflow of migrants crossing the border.

Slow Environmental Change and Displacement in Samut Prakan and Samut Sakorn Provinces, Thailand

This research aims to understand situations of vulnerability and community agency to respond to flooding, coastal erosion, and sea-level rise.

Past Research

Blended Learning Course on Climate Change, Disaster and Displacement

This collaborative research will create blended learning materials to further a human rights-based approach to displacement in the context of disaster and climate change in Asia.

Flooding disaster, people’s displacement and state response in Hat Yai

As disaster preparedness and response receives growing attention, this research examines through a human rights lens whether the 'Hat Yai model' offers new insights and strategies.