Mr. Pongkawin Jungrungruangkit, Minister of Labour, stated that in response to images or video clips circulating on social media that portray inappropriate treatment of migrant workers in Thailand, causing alarm among the migrant worker community, he has taken the issue seriously. The Labour Minister has instructed the Department of Employment (DOE), Department of Skill Development (DSD), Department of Labour Protection and Welfare (DLPW), Social Security Office (SSO), and the Office of the Permanent Secretary of Labour to visit affected areas to conduct thorough investigations, including detailed checks on any reported cases of abuse toward Cambodian workers residing in Thailand.
The Labour Minister confirmed that no incidents of abuse against Cambodian workers in Thailand have been found to date, and there have been no reports of physical assault. Nonetheless, all relevant agencies have deployed officials to various locations to verify the situation and coordinate with employers and workplaces employing Cambodian workers to foster an accurate understanding and prevent conflicts. Employers have also been advised to take precautions to avoid tensions between Thai employers and employees, as well as between Cambodian workers.
Mr. Pongkawin added that he wishes to assure Cambodian workers currently working in Thailand that, despite the sensitive circumstances, all migrant workers may continue their employment as usual. The Ministry of Labour has no policy to repatriate Cambodian workers, and they will continue to receive complete legal protection as normal.
“The Ministry of Labour is committed to treating all workers equally. We ask for cooperation from migrant workers in Thailand to avoid gathering in large groups or engaging in any activities that may affect national security. If there are any incidents of physical assault against Cambodian workers or actions that may lead to misunderstanding, please report them immediately to the relevant Ministry of Labour agencies,” said Mr. Pongkawin.
