Introducing Myanmar Workers into the System in Accordance with Good Governance Principles

Abstract

This academic article explains to readers the importance of legally hiring Myanmar workers to the Thai economy and society by outlining the procedures for hiring them, including requesting employment permits, issuing work permits, and signing employment contracts. It also focuses on protecting Myanmar workers’ rights, ensuring they receive fair wages, safe working conditions, and legal welfare, reducing human trafficking and labour rights violations, and promoting good relations between countries and economic cooperation between Thailand and Myanmar. This analysis uses the concepts of the foreign worker system and foreign worker policy as a framework for consideration, indicating that there are currently almost 6.8 million Myanmar workers living and working in Thailand and that domestic businesses cannot afford to do without this group of workers. Although Myanmar workers must reside in Thailand for a long time, the government should take appropriate measures to introduce them into the system for the benefit of all parties. Excluding Myanmar workers may have adverse effects on the Thai economy, as they are a key driver of its growth. Appropriately accepting Myanmar workers will help Thailand steadily move forward in developing its economy. There is also a humanitarian dimension to consider, as some of these workers are fleeing from war and instability in their own countries. Providing compassionate assistance to Myanmar workers will help enhance Thailand’s image, reduce social prejudice, and foster friendly cooperation among nations, thereby creating a society with mutual understanding. Therefore, the government should implement policies with transparency, honesty, and fairness. There should be a strict inspection system to reduce corruption and the exploitation of foreign workers, and to provide clear information about labour policies to both employers and foreign workers so they can make informed decisions about the cost of renewing their work permits. Such policies will enable Myanmar workers to work legally in Thailand and help promote sustainable development.