Representatives from the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH) and the National Unity Government (NUG) held an online meeting with South Korean parliamentarian Kang Yi-li to discuss collaborative efforts in supporting Myanmar refugees and migrant workers in Thailand. The meeting, which took place on March 5, focused on strengthening cooperation between the countries to address the challenges faced by Myanmar nationals who have sought refuge in Thailand for various reasons. The discussion emphasized the need for enhanced support mechanisms and protection of rights for these vulnerable populations.
During the meeting, participants reviewed the outcomes of the Korea-Thailand-Myanmar Global Forum on ‘Enhancing Rights and Economic Opportunities for Myanmar Refugees in Mae Sot,’ which was held on January 30. The forum’s strengths and weaknesses were analyzed, and attendees proposed future actions based on the initiative’s findings. U Ukka Min, Chairman of the CRPH’s Labor Affairs Committee, and U Kyaw Ni, Deputy Minister of Labor for the National Unity Government, provided detailed insights into the difficulties faced by Myanmar refugees and migrant workers in Thailand. They specifically addressed issues concerning legal documentation, residency challenges, and the concerning practice of Thai authorities transferring detained Myanmar nationals to the military council.
A significant portion of the discussion centered on the military council’s forced conscription of repatriated individuals, highlighting the urgent need to protect Myanmar citizens from such human rights violations. The meeting also addressed the educational needs of young Myanmar nationals in Thailand and explored ways to enhance their access to educational opportunities. Participants called for increased support from the international community, including South Korea and Thailand, to assist the Myanmar people in their current crisis. The meeting was attended by various stakeholders, including members of the CRPH, the Labor Affairs Committee, NUG officials, the NUG’s representative to South Korea, border-based migrant assistance organizations, and representatives from South Korean civil society organizations.
