The Cambodia Urges Global Brands to Protect Migrant Workers amid Thai Violence

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(Phnom Penh): The Cambodian Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT) has issued an open letter appealing to international brands, buyers sourcing from Thailand, and consumers of Thai products and services to take urgent action following a surge in violence and harassment against Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand.

In a strongly worded statement, the MLVT open letter released on 27 July, to draw attention of brands and buyers sourcing from Thailand, and consumers of Thai products and services to the increasing numbers of violence and harassment against migrant workers in Thailand recently committed by Thai extremist group.

“The victims in those attacks have been identified as migrant workers, with the majority being Cambodian nationals,” the letter stated. “These developments raise serious concerns about the safety and well-being of Cambodian citizens and migrant workers in Thailand, and highlight the risk posed by racially motivated hostility.”
The Ministry also called on global supply chain stakeholders not to turn a blind eye to the situation, particularly as Thailand continues to be a major exporter and international tourism hub.

“As Thailand is a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the MLVT appeals to all brands and buyers sourcing from Thailand, and consumers of Thai products and services, to play an active role in protecting the rights and well-being of migrant workers,” the Ministry said.
The letter has also been formally sent to the IOM and ILO offices in Cambodia, Thailand, and Geneva, requesting joint efforts to uphold migrant workers’ rights and dignity.

Sun Mesa, the MLVT’s Spokesman said that “We call for immediate intervention to ensure safe and fair working conditions and urges adherence to international labour standards.”

As Thailand is a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the MLVT appeals to all brands and buyers sourcing from Thailand, and consumers of Thai products and services to play an active role in protecting the rights and well-being of migrant workers, he said.