Attending Panel: Is Thailand a Safe Home? Refugee Crisis & Solutions by NMF’s ED Dr. Sann Aung
On April 30, 2024, the New Myanmar Foundation (NMF) participated in a pivotal panel discussion titled “Is Thailand a Safe Home? Refugee Crisis & Solutions,” held at SEA Junction, BACC, and on Zoom. The event, focusing on Myanmar refugees in Thailand, featured significant contributions from Dr. Sann Aung, Executive Director of NMF. The discussion covered the 2019 national screening mechanism for refugees and highlighted the lack of legal protections due to Thailand not being a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention.
Dr. Sann Aung emphasized the critical need for accessible and affordable work permits, proper documentation, and protection from arrest and exploitation for refugees. He pointed out that many highly skilled refugees are relegated to low-paying jobs due to their undocumented status, despite their contributions to the Thai economy. Dr. Sann Aung called for collaboration between the Thai government, INGOs, and Burmese CSOs to develop comprehensive solutions that include legal documentation, healthcare, education, and job opportunities for refugees. He stressed that promoting peace, human rights, and democracy in Myanmar is essential to address the root causes of displacement. NMF remains committed to supporting refugees and migrants, advocating for their rights, and working towards a more humane and supportive environment in Thailand.
