Thailand's refugee work program

Thailand began a work program for Myanmar refugees living in camps to address labor shortages after U.S. aid cuts.

Refugees in camps face aid cuts

Over 100,000 Myanmar refugees in Thai camps received reduced food and healthcare support after U.S. aid reductions.

Refugees allowed to work outside camps

Thailand reversed policy to let 6,800 Myanmar refugees work outside camps in the first year of the program.

Ray Boe's story

Ray Boe, a 31-year-old Myanmar refugee, earns 400 baht daily pouring concrete in Bangkok to support his family.

“After the cuts by USAID and other organizations, there is no more regular support for our daily needs, like rice and other rations. And there is not enough healthcare in the camps anymore”

Labor gap in Thailand

Thailand faces labor shortages after Cambodian migrant workers returned home due to border disputes.

Government claims

Thai officials say the program will help refugees earn income and contribute to economic development.

“We are hopeful that this policy would enhance opportunities and empower the [refugees] to realize their potential, as well as contribute to Thai socioeconomic development”

Rights groups support program

Human rights groups welcome the program, saying refugees now have income and reduced aid dependence.

“This is good because they feel they can help themselves, they can support themselves, not depend on aid anymore”

Program challenges

Many refugees face poor working conditions, low pay, and lack of contracts after joining the program.

“Many refugees go, come back, go, come back so many times. Some refugees, their families have to raise funds or borrow money in the refugee camps so that their father or their family member will be able to return”

Refugees in debt

Refugees often repay employers through wage deductions for medical exams and transportation.

“We spoke to the boss, but the boss did not care. He said, 'Just do the work because you are already here.' But we said we could not do it”

Akwah's experience

Akwah, a Myanmar refugee, was promised 250 baht daily for sugarcane work but earned only 200 baht for eucalyptus cutting.

Solutions proposed

Rights groups urge clear contracts in Burmese, Karen, or Karenni languages and better complaint systems for refugees.

Refugees still eager to work

Most refugees want to work despite challenges, saying camp food shortages force them to seek income.

“I had a bad experience, but I still want to go again, because food in the camp is a problem”