Leave no one behind: Community-driven urban development in Thailand

This paper examines community participation in housing projects for low-income communities in Thailand and how they have sought to ‘leave no one behind’. Baan Mankong, the government slum upgrading programme, is unique in how it has institutionalised participation. Housing projects funded by international funders, community savings or small government subsidies also use participation in their design and implementation. Simultaneously, new concepts like universal design promote an inclusive experience, taking into account the needs of all community members, irrespective of age and ability. Six case studies are presented here, focusing on central and underprivileged homes in the programme, the renovation of homes for vulnerable people, and the design of communal spaces.