The second wave

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand was ranked 6th globally in pandemic preparedness according to a report by the Global Health Security Index, and they have lived up to that statistic in terms of controlling the spread of the virus. Yet Thailand was presented with another disaster throughout the pandemic, the crippling economic impact on their most vulnerable citizens.

While the initial economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was sudden and visible, the long term effects of this ongoing global crisis are unknown. This digital exhibition photographer Lauren DeCicca and journalist Ryn Jirenuwat examine the continued struggles faced by impoverished communities and workers in the informal economy due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this exhibit, DeCicca and Jirenuwat explore the life-saving donations and medical aid provided by volunteer groups in Bangkok throughout the lockdown period. We meet parents struggling to feed their families; informal workers seeing their incomes vanish; and unemployed, homeless Thais sharing their struggles and fears as they attempt to navigate the “new normal.” However, for many–the hard work and dedication of volunteer groups within their communities offer hope. Today, Thailand’s economy is recovering and continuing to grow due to the return of tourism and other fiscal factors, yet many workers in the informal economy are still struggling.

As the global community continues to be impacted by COVID-19 and ongoing impacts of the pandemic and lockdown periods, important discussions about public health disparities, mental health, and the “new normal” are taking place.