RIGHTS OF FOREIGN WORKERS IN MODERN THAILAND
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Abstract
This article examines the current situation of migrant workers' rights in Thailand by analyzing through the frameworks of universal human rights, labor migration theory, and the concept of social justice. Despite Thailand’s efforts in enacting laws and policies such as the Alien Workers Management Act B.E. 2560 (2017) and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with origin countries to protect migrant workers’ rights, various challenges persist. These include inconsistent law enforcement, policy instability, high registration costs, language barriers, social stigmatization, and risks of human trafficking. This article proposes sustainable approaches to promoting migrant workers’ rights, including legal reform, lowering registration costs, expanding access to labor rights information, enhancing the role of civil society, changing societal attitudes, strengthening international cooperation, and utilizing technology in migrant labor management. Effective protection of migrant workers' rights will not only improve their quality of life but also enhance Thailand’s economic stability and human rights reputation in the international arena.
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