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. Despite the Thai government’s minimum wage requirement of 400 baht per day, the factory operates on a contract system. Workers also report that they face immediate termination for even a single unauthorized absence.
When workers attempt to raise their concerns, they face a bureaucratic loop where the factory directs them to speak with brokers, while brokers redirect them back to the factory, with neither party taking responsibility for addressing their issues. 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 (10 lakhs). Previous attempts by workers to protest these oppressive conditions have resulted in the termination of those who participated in the demonstrations.
