The National Unity Government’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent a letter of gratitude to the Thai King and government for allowing Myanmar refugees who fled from the terrorist military to work legally in Thailand. On August 27, the Thai government approved work permits for Myanmar war refugees living in temporary shelters along the Thai-Myanmar border. Union Minister Daw Zin Mar Aung of the National Unity Government’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent the letter on behalf of the NUG and Myanmar people expressing appreciation to the Thai King and government for this decision.
The National Unity Government has indicated its readiness to cooperate with the Thai government regarding necessary humanitarian assistance for Myanmar war refugees and migrant workers. Thailand approved a new program allowing Myanmar refugees, who have been living in temporary shelters along the border for decades, to legally work within the country. The Thai government has permitted Myanmar refugees to live outside designated controlled areas and granted work authorization through the Ministry of Labor. Under this program, approximately 42,000 work permits are being prepared for issuance. Currently, Thailand hosts 77,718 displaced persons from Myanmar in nine temporary refugee shelters. The majority of these refugees have lived in these locations for decades, with about 47 percent of the refugee population being born in the camps.
The Thai government implemented these policy reforms at a time when global funding cuts have reduced refugee assistance and humanitarian aid. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has welcomed this policy change by the Thai government as a step that benefits both refugees and Thailand. UNHCR stated that by accepting and opening doors to the potential and circumstances of long-term refugees, Thailand is not only adhering to humanitarian principles but also making a strategic investment in its future.
Under the new framework, refugees must apply for permission to leave their camps, undergo health screenings, and register for social security or health insurance. Work permits for Myanmar refugees will be tax-exempt and valid for one year. This initiative represents a significant shift in Thailand’s approach to handling the refugee situation, providing opportunities for integration and self-sufficiency while maintaining necessary oversight and regulation. The program demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions for the long-standing refugee situation while also addressing its own labor market needs and humanitarian obligations.
