This situation report presents key findings from a multi-stakeholder policy dialogue on migrant workers in Thailand’s agricultural sector, highlighting how the industry’s under-regulated and precarious nature exacerbated by COVID-19 continues to leave workers vulnerable to exploitation, debt, and lack of social protection.

Drawing on discussions with migrant workers, civil society, academics, private sector actors, and government agencies, the report identifies major challenges such as costly and complex registration processes, dependence on brokers, irregular employment patterns requiring multiple employers, and limited access to healthcare and welfare for workers and their families.It provides concrete policy recommendations, including improved registration systems, expanded social security access, translation services, and stronger labour inspections to align national policies with the realities of agricultural work and ensure fair and safe conditions for migrant workers in Thailand’s agriculture sector.

The report is based on a policy dialogue held on 25 November 2022 in Chiang Mai, bringing together 43 participants from migrant worker groups, civil society organizations, universities, government agencies, and the private sector to discuss these issues and identify practical policy solutions.

Access: Open

Authors: Sudarat Musikawong, Teeranong Sakulsri, and Adisorn Kerdmongkol

Date: January 10, 2023

Affiliation: Institute for Population and Social Research

Language: English

Country: Thailand