Myanmar workers at Won Sinh Technology factory in Chonburi, Thailand have reported experiencing discrimination and oppression from their employers. The factory, which employs over 900 Myanmar workers alongside Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese workers, has been specifically targeting Myanmar workers with unfair treatment. Workers report that the factory has been terminating employees without cause or compensation and implementing irregular work schedules.
According to workers, the factory initially increased its workforce during good business periods, but after the Chinese New Year holiday, they began implementing irregular work schedules where workers would alternate between working one day and taking one day off. Some workers were forced to take three to four days off before being allowed to work for just one day. The factory has ignored requests for daily wage compensation during forced off days and operates on a contract system instead of following the Thai government’s mandated minimum wage of 400 baht per day. Workers also report that they face immediate termination for even a single unauthorized absence.
When workers attempt to raise concerns about these issues, they are caught in a circular system where the factory directs them to speak with brokers, while brokers redirect them back to the factory, effectively preventing any resolution to their problems. Workers who formally resign are given fake work permits, making it difficult for them to find employment at other factories. The cost of obtaining new work permits amounts to approximately 1 million Myanmar kyat (about 10 lakhs). Previous attempts by workers to protest these oppressive conditions have resulted in the termination of those who participated in such demonstrations.
