Over 34% of Thai children miss out on vital support grant

A recent study by UNICEF and the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) revealed that over 34% of children from impoverished households do not receive the monthly allowance they are entitled to under the Child Support Grant scheme. This finding highlights the urgency of addressing the high exclusion error and expanding the grant to all children under six years old, especially in light of Thailand’s low birth rate and rapidly ageing population.

UNICEF Deputy Representative for Thailand Severine Leonardi emphasised the importance of early childhood investment.

“Investment in children’s early years is the smartest investment in human capital development that Thailand can make, and the country has the fiscal space to afford it according to forecasts by UNICEF and TDRI.”

Leonardi further noted that the first six years are crucial for building a strong foundation for children’s health, education, and future societal participation. Failure to take action could significantly impact Thailand’s future development.

Although the Child Support Grant has proven beneficial for children’s health and nutrition, its overall impact on poverty reduction is limited due to the high exclusion error and insufficient cash benefits. Somchai Jitsuchon, Research Director of Inclusive Development at TDRI, pointed out that such high exclusion rates are often linked to the design and targeting strategy of cash transfer programmes.

“The exclusions often occur during screening and registration when a household’s eligibility is being verified. The new findings confirm that the exclusion rate remains high in Thailand, pointing to persisting inefficiencies in the scheme.”

Increased funding

Since its inception in 2015, the Child Support Grant has expanded in coverage and value. However, the current benefit level of 600 baht per month remains inadequate for meeting children’s basic needs.

According to Jitsuchon, an additional investment of 7 billion baht could eliminate the exclusion error and extend the grant to over one million children under six years old from poor households. This additional funding would bring the total budget for the Child Support Grant to around 23 billion baht, equivalent to 0.1% of Thailand’s GDP.

“This is the most effective investment in Thailand’s most valuable asset, its children.”

Public opinion strongly supports the expansion of the Child Support Grant. A Suan Dusit Poll conducted earlier this year revealed that 81% of people in Thailand favour extending the grant to all children below six years old. They view the scheme as an effective measure to support families with children, reduce poverty, and ensure every child’s right to a dignified childhood.

The grant has already had a positive impact, improving children’s nutrition, and access to post-natal care, and empowering mothers. These benefits contribute to lifelong learning and development, which in turn supports Thailand’s growth and prosperity through enhanced human capital.

Expanding the grant to all children is seen as a crucial step towards a brighter future, aligning with the government’s policy for promoting quality birth and growth for every child. This policy aims to address the challenges of insufficient income affecting families and the future workforce, reported Pattaya News.