UNDP MDO

Delving into the lives and challenges of Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand, this report sheds light on the dynamic landscape of migration. With an estimated 2.5 million migrants in Thailand, the study emphasizes the critical role migrant labor plays in the country’s economic fabric.

SEEKING OPPORTUNITIES ELSEWHERE:

EXPLORING THE LIVES AND CHALLENGES OF MYANMAR MIGRANT WORKERS IN THAILAND

November 2023

Delving into the lives and challenges of Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand, this report sheds light on the dynamic landscape of migration. With an estimated 2.5 million migrants in Thailand, the study emphasizes the critical role migrant labor plays in the country’s economic fabric. Highlighting the struggles faced by documented and undocumented migrants, the report explores disparities in working conditions, benefits, and healthcare access. Distinct gender disparities emerge, especially for undocumented females who encounter lower pay, longer hours, and limited support systems. The study underscores the need for comprehensive reforms, including flexible visa options, improved healthcare provisions, and enhanced workplace conditions, to foster a more equitable and supportive environment for Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand.

Navigating the multifaceted challenges revealed in the survey of 2,249 Myanmar migrant workers, the findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions. Gender inequalities, mental health disparities, and obstacles to regularization demand immediate attention. The report recommends practical measures such as flexible visa options, strengthened healthcare access, and increased awareness of gender disparities. Encouraging collective action, our study calls on the private sector, civil society, and governmental departments in Thailand to collaborate in implementing reforms. By addressing these challenges head-on, meaningful contributions can be made to a more just and supportive environment for Myanmar migrant workers seeking opportunities in Thailand.

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