Thailand

Legal awareness training for migrant worker helpers: guaranteeing equal access to human rights

In Thailand, there are almost 4 million migrant workers across various sectors in the country, approximately 2.9 million of which are Myanmar nationals.  Many migrant workers, however, lack basic knowledge of their human rights. As a result, they often face barriers to accessing the justice system and are vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.
To empower migrant workers and strengthen their awareness of rights and freedoms, FNF Thailand, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and FAIR, organized a two-day workshop for interested migrant workers and individuals working closely with migrant communities. The workshop focused on the principles of human rights, basic laws concerning migrant workers, and ways to access help and support. Over 60 participants from diverse background attended the workshop, most of them were Myanmar nationals working in Thailand. 

The workshop consisted of two parts. The first part was the lecture session on the principles of human rights with a focus on issues relevant to migrant workers such as the lack of access to fundamental healthcare of migrant workers and restrictions on freedom of migrant workers. Participants then brainstormed for a solution for the issues. 

Then the workshop moved on to the second part, which used FNF’s Rights Card  as a tool to train participants on human rights through simulation and problem-solving exercises. Legal experts were also present to provide legal advice and consultations relating to challenges faced by migrant workers in Thailand.

The aim of the workshop is for participants to become helpers and leaders within migrant communities in protecting their fundamental rights and freedom. “I have gained substantial knowledge about human rights and how to seek help and report problems through this workshop. Now that I understand better, I can help other workers as well.” One participant shared.
 

* Takdanai Ketkaew is Programme Assistant and Communication Officer at FNF Thailand