Mizzima-Feb 26
The Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok must take immediate action to support Myanmar migrant workers left stranded following the closure of the Aid Alliance Committee (AAC) office in Thailand, said AAC Executive Director U Khaing Gyi. The AAC office in Mahachai, Samut Sakhon Province, was assisting Myanmar workers, but was shut down by Thai authorities, leaving many in a dire situation. On 18 February, Thai officials inspected and initially closed the office but did not issue an official order at the time. Authorities found more than 100 migrant workers, including MOU workers and their families residing there during the inspection. Two days later, on 20 February, Thai authorities sent an official notice stating that the office was illegal and must be demolished within two months. The notice also warned that continued operations would result in a daily fine of 10,000 baht, a three-month prison sentence, and an additional fine of 60,000 baht. The Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok evacuated over 30 MOU workers on the night of 23 February, but did not assist the remaining individuals, including disabled migrant workers. Among those still at the AAC office are five migrant workers and their families who were injured in the collapse of a concrete beam on Rama 2 Road in November 2024. The AAC has been supporting the workers since they have not received promised compensation of 1,000,000 baht after a three-month wait. “The Thai government pledged to provide compensation, but they haven’t received it yet. The Myanmar Embassy has made no efforts to follow up on this matter,” U Khaing Gyi added. Despite Thai authorities ordering the demolition of the AAC office, U Khaing Gyi insisted that the building, which was funded through public donations, would not be taken down voluntarily. Read more at:
