The welfare provision model of a homeworker network: A case study of the HomeNet Thailand Association

Abstract

The objective of this research was to develop a welfare provision model of a homeworker network using a qualitative research method in the form of a case study. The sample unit of the study involved a homeworker network, specifically the HomeNet Thailand Association (HNTA). The target group of 36 people consisted of network leaders, network committee members, network members, representatives from various sectors participating in welfare provision and other experts concerning informal worker welfare. Data were  collected using in-depth interviews, group discussions, and observations. These research findings were used to develop a model for the welfare provision of a homeworker network using careful consideration and reliability confirmation by said experts. The derived model showed that the welfare provision of the homeworker network was based on the concept of welfare pluralism derived from the cooperation of homeworker network with other various sectors in a social movement to empower the homeworkers to be able to demand their rights and to develop new forms of welfare appropriate to the challenges faced by homeworkers. The model can be adapted to other informal workers networks by giving importance to creating diverse working partnerships, expanding the membership base in order to be representative of informal workers in making demands and advocating pol- icies, raising awareness and co-responsibility of members in order to participate in welfare provision, and creating new learning processes of members.