Thailand Prepares to Accept Refugees from Myanmar
Thailand is ready to welcome around 100,000 individuals escaping the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, according to Bangkok’s top diplomat. The Southeast Asian nation shares a lengthy border of 2,400 kilometers with Myanmar, which has been in turmoil since the military junta seized power from the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021.
Current Situation
In recent months, Myanmar’s military has been facing increased resistance from anti-junta groups, leading to unrest in previously peaceful regions of the country. Reports of intense clashes near the border town of Myawaddy, close to Mae Sot in Thailand, have emerged over the weekend.
Thailand’s Response
Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara stated that Thailand has made preparations to accommodate up to 100,000 refugees in safe areas temporarily. Despite not being a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention, Thailand is willing to provide refuge to those fleeing the conflict in Myanmar.
While there has been no mass evacuation, individuals have been crossing the border seeking safety. Parnpree assured that the border remains open for trade, although there has been a decrease in trade volume by approximately 30% over the past year.
Border Concerns
Myawaddy, Myanmar’s third-busiest land crossing, has seen a significant drop in trade activity, with $1.1 billion worth of goods passing through in the last 12 months. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Thai officials recently discussed the border situation, expressing concerns over a potential escalation of the conflict.
In response to a request from the Myanmar junta, Thailand has allowed three special flights to repatriate individuals. However, Thailand has a history of hosting tens of thousands of Myanmar refugees in informal settlements near the border since the 1980s.