Tsunami Thailand, one year later: national response and the contribution of international partners

The report documents the efforts taken by the Thai Government, public, private sector and civil society in responding to the disaster. Unlike the other affected countries, Thailand did not formally appeal for international support, and the Government led an effective emergency response to the disaster including a massive forensic operation to identify the bodies of thousands of victims, which included Thai citizens and foreign visitors. The basic humanitarian needs of the affected communities were addressed within days. The Government put in place special assistance programs and compensation schemes for the victims. The longer-term recovery of the affected communities and the local economy are now the focus of the national response. International partners are playing a strategic role here, and the World Bank is assisting through three Japanese Social Development Fund grants.