Increase in Migration to Thailand from Ann, Gwa, Thandwe, and Kyaukphyu
Arakha Times (14-November-2024)
An increasing number of migrants from the Rakhine State towns of Ann, Gwa, Thandwe, and Kyaukphyu are reportedly moving to Thailand, according to U Naing Aung Aung, Director of the Thailand-based Arakan Workers Organization.
Following the 2021 coup, many workers from Rakhine migrated to Thailand. However, U Naing Aung Aung noted that more people from unexpected areas, like Ann, Gwa, Thandwe, and Kyaukphyu, are now joining the migration.
“Since the military takeover, many people from Rakhine have fled here, including more from less-expected towns. Previously, most migrants came from Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw, Sittwe, Rathedaung, and Buthidaung, but now we’re seeing increased migration from places like Ann, Gwa, Thandwe, and Kyaukphyu,” he said.
The majority are settling in Mae Sot on the Myanmar border and in Thailand’s southern areas, such as the coastlines and restaurants on Koh Samui, with some residing in Bangkok and Mahachai.
Although the exact numbers of these migrants are unknown due to the various routes taken to enter Thailand, migration from Rakhine has reportedly increased.
Once in Thailand, Rakhine migrants work mainly in factories, workshops, and seafood industries. However, like other migrant workers, they face various challenges, including documentation issues, according to U Naing Aung Aung.
“The main problems for migrant workers are the lack of documentation, limited job opportunities, employment rights violations, and restrictions on traveling and residence. When workers gather, they often share one person’s wage among many, leading to unfair income distribution. Additionally, some cannot afford the fees for obtaining documentation, a widespread issue among migrant workers, not just Rakhine,” he explained.
Currently, Thailand hosts over 7 million migrant workers from Myanmar, with more than 2 million expected to face expired permits by 2025. According to the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok, these workers will be eligible for two extensions, each lasting two years, allowing temporary residency and employment rights for up to four additional years.
