Thailand presents itself as a haven for LGBTI tourists, but just how supportive was the government to its nationals under this spectrum during Covid-19 was questioned at a recent seminar -- which also touched on their need for socio-economic, health, and justice -- at a time when authorities are working to help Thais weather a pandemic with relief and stimulus packages.

Nachale Boonyapisomparn, the co-founder of the Thai Transgender Alliance (Thai TGA) and coordinator at the Asia Pacific Transgender Network, remarked that while the pandemic had impacted everyone, it had especially put vulnerable groups such as the LGBTI at greater risk, particularly the way they access resources.

The gender equality activist said this conclusion is based on an online survey of the impact of Covid-19 on LGBTI communities, conducted mid-last-year by UNDP Thailand and the Asia Pacific Transgender Network. The results revealed that 47% of the LGBTI population lost their job or were forced to go on unpaid leave because of the pandemic.

She said the data also shed light on how 51% of respondents did not receive any Covid-19 related government support while just 22% received financial support from the government. Moreover, another 69% stated that isolation and not being able to socialise, go outside, and working from home for lengthy periods had led to loneliness, increased stress, and depression. Read more via Bangkok Post