Alla impact stories
40 000 Burmese refugees granted the right to work in Thailand
Coordinated advocacy to improve conditions for Burmese refugees in Thailand has led to around 40 000 people being granted work permits. Through the efforts of the Palme Center’s progressive parliamentary partner in Thailand, together with civil society and the SocDem Asia network, many people from Myanmar now have legal incomes for the first time – along with greater security and a stronger sense of dignity.Tens of thousands of people who have fled the war in Myanmar have long lived in camps in Thailand without the opportunity to work legally and support their families. As international aid has decreased sharply, the uncertainty is increasing further for these already vulnerable communities.
Through joint advocacy efforts by a progressive parliamentary partner in Thailand, civil society organisations and the SocDem Asia network, the situation has begun to change.
Organising relevant people to discuss solutions
In December 2024, policy workshops were organised where Thai politicians, researchers and representatives of Burmese communities met. In March 2025, a conference on Myanmar was held in the Thai parliament, focusing on living conditions and security in Thailand’s border areas.
This resulted in more concrete policy proposals regarding access to the labour market, education, healthcare and legal status for people from Myanmar in the country.
The Palme Center’s Thai partner organization adopted the proposals as part of their parliamentary agenda and pushed the issue alongside civil society.
When the Thai government finally took action, the result became that around 40 000 refugees from Myanmar got granted work permits in Thailand.
Improved conditions for Burmese refugees in Thailand
For many, this decision means legal income for the first time, greater security and increased dignity. At the same time, it opens the door to further discussions on education for children, access to healthcare and more long-term social inclusion.
