Thailand Opens Job Market for Karen Refugees from Myanmar

In a significant policy shift, Thailand has announced that it will allow refugees from Myanmar, specifically members of the Karen ethnic group, to apply for work permits. This decision comes after decades of restrictions that left many living in dire conditions within refugee camps.

As of late August, the Thai government has made it possible for those in camps along the Myanmar border to legally seek employment in Thailand. Approximately 108,000 individuals currently reside in nine refugee camps, many of whom fled due to violence and oppression from the Myanmar military. Notably, a substantial portion of these refugees were born in the camps and have never experienced life outside their confines.

This new work permit policy is applicable only to around 80,000 registered refugees, of which about 42,000 are of working age. To secure employment, these individuals must obtain an exit permit and a work permit valid for up to one year.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has welcomed this development, recognizing it as a positive step towards a more comprehensive and rights-based solution for refugees in the region. While the initial implementation covers a limited number of individuals, the UNHCR aims to advocate for the expansion of this policy to include all displaced persons.

Historically, refugees in Thailand have faced significant challenges, including a lack of legal work opportunities and restricted access to essential services, forcing them to rely heavily on international aid. Recent tensions have exacerbated their plight, particularly following cuts to humanitarian assistance from USAID, which had been a primary source of support for these camps. In early 2025, the monthly food aid provided to refugees was drastically reduced, further intensifying their need for alternative means of support.

In response to this pressing situation, local aid organizations have long advocated for the right to work for refugees. Leaders in the Karen community have emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency, arguing that earning a living is preferable to dependence on external aid.

The change in Thailand's policy is also driven by economic factors. The country requires a steady supply of labor, particularly in sectors heavily reliant on migrant workers from Myanmar and Cambodia. As of April 2025, approximately 4.1 million migrant workers were registered in Thailand, with an additional one to two million estimated to be employed illegally.

This labor shortage has been exacerbated by recent regional tensions, including a brief conflict between Thailand and Cambodia that resulted in a significant exodus of Cambodian workers, particularly from the construction and fishing industries.

Despite the potential for some Karen refugees to fill labor gaps, experts caution that many may lack the necessary education and experience. Consequently, they may find employment primarily in low-skilled positions, such as agriculture and basic service jobs.

Moreover, the policy does not extend to the many undocumented Karen refugees and individuals from other parts of Myanmar residing in Thailand, who remain at risk of detention and deportation. Humanitarian organizations continue to advocate for comprehensive reforms to protect all displaced individuals.