(Phnom Penh): On 6 August 2025, the Cambodian Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT) firmly rejected claims made by Somchai Morakotseechan, Director General of the Department of Employment (DOE), Ministry of Labour, which reported that thousands of Cambodian migrant workers were returning home due to threats of citizenship revocation and land confiscation in Thailand.

Spokesman for the Ministry Sun Mesa denounced the remarked as “misleading and false,” stressing that there is no policy or threat from the Cambodian government targeting the citizenship or land ownership of its returning nationals.

“I would like to reject the remarked of Somchai Morakotseechan, Director General of the Department of Employment (DOE), Ministry of Labour, which often publishes false information and distorts the situation. This is not the first time for him. I appeal to Cambodians and the international community not to believe this report,” said Sun Mesa in an official statement.

According to the Ministry, the real reasons behind the mass return—which involves an estimated 800,000 Cambodian workers—are rooted in rising violence and discrimination from Thai extremist groups, a lack of protection by local authorities, and recent military incursions by Thailand into Cambodian territory.

In addition, the Ministry cited appeals from Cambodian leaders, including Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet, encouraging citizens to return and contribute to the national economy as a driving factor behind the surge.

The Ministry continues to urge Cambodian workers still in Thailand to return if they face intimidation, abuse, or discrimination, and has launched a nationwide campaign to support returnees.

As part of this effort, the Ministry has rolled out the second phase of a reintegration campaign offering job placement services and free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in 300 communes across Cambodia. Over 550,000 job opportunities are now available to assist those who have returned.

“If you need work and skills training, please call 1297,” the Ministry advised in a public message.

The Ministry also called on local communities and employers to collaborate in providing opportunities to returnees, emphasizing national unity and economic recovery.

This latest development comes amid growing concerns about migrant worker safety in the region and highlights the Cambodian government’s commitment to protecting and reintegrating its citizens.
=FRESH NEWS