Study Report: SHIELD Baseline Assessment (Thailand, 2025)

This baseline assessment was conducted under the SHIELD Project to examine the current situation of children’s online safety and child protection systems in selected communities in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces, Thailand. The study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to digital safety among children, youth, caregivers, teachers, and community stakeholders, as well as to identify existing risks, gaps, and protection mechanisms in both online and offline contexts.

Using a mixed-methods approach, the assessment combines surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with children, young people, parents, teachers, school administrators, and local actors. Findings reveal that while digital access among children and youth is increasing, awareness and understanding of online risks—such as cyberbullying, online exploitation, and privacy violations—remain limited. Reporting mechanisms and coordinated child protection responses are often unclear or underutilized, particularly at the community and school levels.

The baseline highlights critical gaps in digital literacy, prevention, and response systems, while also identifying promising practices, including youth participation and emerging school-based initiatives. The findings provide an evidence base to inform the design, implementation, and monitoring of the SHIELD Project, supporting the development of stronger, community-based child protection systems and safer digital environments for children.