Mekong – more rights for migrants

Over four million migrants from Cambodia and Myanmar work in Thailand. All three countries belong to the ‘Greater Mekong’ region. Many of these migrant workers do not have valid papers and as a result are vulnerable to merciless exploitation. The pandemic has further exacerbated their plight.

Huge inequality

In Thailand there is significant social inequality – 1% of the population controls nearly 67% of wealth. The country’s 10 billionaires have increased their wealth by a tidy 20% over the course of the pandemic. However, a large part of the population is poverty stricken, including in particular workers from neighbouring countries. The economic situation in their countries of origin is usually poor and people live in great need. As a result many people seek work in Thailand.

Migrant workers are crammed into a van by the Thai police, including a young woman with a baby. Migrant workers are crammed into a van by the Thai police, including a young woman with a baby.

Thai police forces deport migrant workers. © John Hulme

Research and advice

In Southeast Asia, Solidar Suisse combats the worst forms of poverty and social injustice. The focus is on those groups that are most at risk of exploitation, either through forced or child labour or particularly dangerous work.

Help for people in the Mekong region

Migrant workers in Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar are fighting for fair working conditions and against exploitation. You can support them!

Your donation

Help workers in the ‘Greater Mekong’ region. Your donation will help workers to organise themselves and defend themselves against exploitation.

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