An Assessment of Myanmar Migrant Workers’ Access to Social Insurance Programs During the Covid-19 Pandemic in Khon Kaen, Thailand
Keywords:
Access, Social insurance, Myanmar migrant workers, Northeastern Thailand, Covid-19 pandemicAbstract
This study explores the access to social insurance programs and obstacles for Myanmar migrant workers in Khon Kaen, Thailand, using a qualitative case study approach with four focus group discussions. Thematic analysis identified five key themes: availability, accessibility, accommodation, affordability, and acceptability. Documented Myanmar workers in Khon Kaen received more social insurance benefits than undocumented Myanmar workers, although they still faced challenges, including language difficulties and gender issues. The findings suggest that access to social insurance programs varied based on immigration status, highlighting the need for more extensive social protection and insurance coverage for migrant workers. The study also highlights the importance of inter-sectoral policies and awareness-raising among migrant workers to facilitate migrant workers' access to social insurance. Overall, this study provides an insight into the challenges faced by Myanmar migrant workers and offers recommendations to improve their access to social insurance.
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