From Dw · · 2m
Thailand allows Myanmar refugees to work
Thailand's new work program lets Myanmar refugees earn income after aid cuts.
In brief
Thailand's new work program lets Myanmar refugees earn income after aid cuts. Thailand permits 6,800 Myanmar refugees to work outside camps to address labor shortages following foreign aid reductions. Originally reported by Dw.
Thailand's refugee work program
Thailand's work program allows thousands of Myanmar refugees living in camps to support themselves and their families.
Ray Boe's story
Ray Boe, a 31-year-old Myanmar refugee, left his camp to work in Bangkok after aid cuts forced him to borrow money for food and healthcare.
Refugee camp population
Over 100,000 people live in Thai-Myanmar border camps since the 1980s, with most relying on foreign aid until October 2025.
Aid cuts trigger program
Foreign aid cuts by the United States and others forced camps to slash food support and healthcare, prompting Thailand to reverse policy in October 2025.
Labor gap created
Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia sent hundreds of thousands of Cambodian migrant workers back home, creating a labor shortage.
Program launches
Thailand began issuing permits for Myanmar refugees to work outside camps in 43 provinces, aiming to help them meet their own needs.
Ray Boe's earnings
Ray Boe earns 400 baht (about $12) a day pouring concrete in Bangkok, hoping to send money home for food and healthcare.
Government optimism
Thai officials say the program will enhance refugee opportunities and contribute to Thailand's socioeconomic development.
Rights groups welcome
Rights groups say refugees are happier earning money independently, no longer depending on aid.
Program challenges
Many refugees face unpaid contracts, poor working conditions, and lack of complaint systems after joining the program.
Debt and exploitation
Refugees often repay employers through wage deductions for medical exams, permits, and transportation, starting work already in debt.
Akwah's experience
Akwah, a refugee, was promised 250 baht per day for sugarcane work but earned only 200 baht for eucalyptus cutting with no shelter.
The main idea
Thailand permits 6,800 Myanmar refugees to work outside camps to address labor shortages following foreign aid reductions.
