Myanmar workers at Won Sinh Technology factory in Chonburi, Thailand, have reported experiencing systematic discrimination and oppression. The factory, which employs over 900 Myanmar workers alongside Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese workers, has been specifically targeting Myanmar workers with discriminatory practices. Workers have revealed that while the factory previously increased its workforce during good business periods, working conditions have deteriorated significantly since the Chinese New Year break.
Workers now face irregular work schedules, often working one day and being forced to take the next day off, with some workers being made to take three to four days off before being allowed to work for just one day. Despite workers’ requests for daily wage compensation during forced off days, the factory management has remained unresponsive. Although Thai government regulations mandate a daily minimum wage of 400 Thai Baht, the factory has implemented a contract-based system that pays workers based on output rather than daily rates.
The factory management has been implementing strict punitive measures, including immediate termination for a single unauthorized absence. When workers attempt to raise concerns about their working conditions, they face a bureaucratic maze between the factory management and brokers, with neither party taking responsibility for addressing their grievances. Workers who formally resign are issued fake work permits, making it difficult for them to secure employment at other factories. The cost of obtaining new work permits amounts to approximately one million Myanmar Kyat, creating additional financial burdens for the workers.
Previous attempts by workers to protest these unfair conditions have resulted in retaliatory terminations by the factory management. The factory continues to systematically oppress Myanmar workers and violate labor rights, with ongoing discriminatory practices specifically targeting Myanmar nationals. The situation highlights the vulnerable position of Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand and the lack of effective mechanisms to protect their rights and address their grievances.
