Social Vulnerability and Suffering of Flood-Affected People: Case Study of 2011 Mega Flood in Thailand

Abstract

     The purpose of this study was to explore the social vulnerability of flood-affected people resulting from the mega floods during October 2011 to June 2012, in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, in the central flood plain of Thailand. Qualitative techniques including narrative interviews, observation, and focus group discussions with ten respondents were used to collect the data. The results dealt with the lived experiences of flood-affected people who became vulnerable to physical hazards and were exposed to multiple forms of suffering, caused by social factors such as negative economic impacts and political abuse. It was found that flood protection, public and private assistance, and social services focused mainly on the industrial zones, but neglected people living in the vicinity. Flood experience was affected by capitalistic ideology and political power from the patronage system, which produced inequality in assistance. Not only were people affected by visible suffering from physical impacts, they also experienced invisible forms of suffering due to uncertainty, unstable emotions, and mental trauma that affected their mental and physical health. The invisible sources of suffering gained less attention, so social arrangements should consider the social vulnerability that could generate suffering. Recommendations regarding future policy and interventions are given.