Thai authorities affirm no mistreatment of Cambodian laborers reported within their jurisdiction
The Thai Labour Ministry is currently investigating allegations of inappropriate treatment and abuse of Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand [1][2][3]. These allegations have been raised following the circulation of inappropriate images and video clips on social media, causing concern among migrant workers in the country.
In response to these allegations, the Labour Ministry has taken several key measures. They have instructed multiple departments, including the Department of Employment, the Department of Skill Development, the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare, the Social Security Office, and the Office of the Permanent Secretary, to conduct comprehensive investigations into the claims [1][2].
The Ministry is also coordinating with businesses hiring Cambodian workers to ensure accurate understanding and prevent tensions with local workers [1][2]. A formal letter has been sent to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) denying any abuse and inviting ILO representatives for inspections of Thai workplaces to verify conditions [3].
Pongkawin Jungrungruangkit, the Minister of Labour in Thailand, has stressed that the Ministry is not complacent regarding the situation. He assured that there is no policy to deport Cambodian workers and they remain protected under Thai law [1][3]. He urged foreign workers to avoid gathering or activities that could pose a risk to national security.
Despite these assurances, ongoing geopolitical tensions have led to difficulties and some discrimination reported by NGOs, reflected in a significant return of Cambodian migrant workers to Cambodia [4][5]. Approximately 20,000 registered Cambodian workers returned to Cambodia, though the fate of unregistered workers remains unclear [3].
If any acts of violence against Cambodian workers are witnessed, or incidents arise that could lead to misunderstanding, Pongkawin urged to report them immediately to the relevant agencies under the Ministry of Labour. Officers from all departments have been deployed to various areas in Thailand to ensure no violations occur.
In summary, the Thai Labour Ministry's current position is that no systemic inappropriate treatment or abuse of Cambodian migrant workers has been confirmed, supported by active investigations, coordination with employers, and international transparency efforts with the ILO [1][2][3]. However, ongoing geopolitical tensions have led to difficulties and some discrimination reported by NGOs, reflected in a significant return of Cambodian migrant workers to Cambodia [4][5].
- In light of ongoing geopolitical tensions, the issue of Cambodian migrant workers' rights extends beyond the realm of general-news and labour issues, venturing into the realms of politics and crime-and-justice as well.
- The Thai Labour Ministry's investigations into allegations of inappropriate treatment and abuse of Cambodian migrant workers not only involve domestic departments but also international bodies like the International Labour Organisation, highlighting the global nature of business and its associated human rights issues.
