Mekong: Fighting Exploitation
Thailand’s agriculture, tourism, and service sectors are heavily dependent on the labour of migrants from Myanmar and Cambodia. Since the escalation of the conflict in Myanmar, the number of refugees has continued to rise. Many work under precarious and exploitative conditions – often without protection under labour laws. Solidar Suisse, together with local partner organisations, advocates for their rights and ensures access to support services.
Low Wages, Dangerous Work
Miserable accommodation for migrant workers in Thailand. © John Hulme
Fighting for Greater Rights
Solidar Suisse works with the Mekong Migration Network (MMN) and its local member organisations to improve the working and living conditions of migrants. The focus is on people working in Thailand’s agriculture and service sectors under exploitative conditions – as well as on their families in countries of origin, Myanmar and Cambodia.
A core element of the project is advocacy-driven research: in collaboration with local organisations, Solidar Suisse investigates the situation of migrant workers, documents abuses, and uses the findings to inform and influence political decision-making. Results are shared with national and regional stakeholders – especially within ASEAN – to initiate structural change. At the same time, Solidar Suisse strengthens civil society organisations and activists committed to defending migrant workers’ rights. These individuals receive training and support to enable them to advise, accompany, and protect migrants effectively. Migrant workers themselves are informed about their legal rights, counselled, and supported – for example in accessing healthcare, resolving labour disputes, or in cases of violence and abuse.
The project also raises public awareness by exposing systemic discrimination and fostering public debate around fair labour migration.
Support That Makes a Difference
Thanks to many years of work by Solidar Suisse and its partners, significant progress has already been achieved in the Mekong region: Hundreds of migrant workers have received legal and psychosocial support. In several provinces, local organisations have improved access to healthcare, counselling, and education for migrants and their children. MMN’s research has helped bring political attention to the challenges faced by migrant workers in agriculture, services, and construction. A network of lawyers and activists has been established in Cambodia and Thailand, offering practical assistance to migrants in emergency situations.
Groundbreaking Research
With the support of Solidar Suisse, the Mekong Migration Network investigated the situation of migrant workers in Thailand’s agricultural sector. The study, published in 2020, was the first to provide a detailed look into working conditions on maize, cassava, palm oil, and rubber plantations. The report serves as a foundation for counselling and advocacy work. Authorities have since announced improvements for migrant workers.
Donations for Workers
Migrant workers in Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar are fighting for fair working conditions and against exploitation. You can support them!