Thai MP Rangsiman Rome emphasizes the urgent need for Thailand to reform its approach to managing the influx of Myanmar refugees by registering them for legal status, access to services, and opportunities to contribute economically. Rome highlights the challenges posed by corruption and the lack of coordination among government ministries while calling for international collaboration to address the situation effectively. He asserts that recognizing refugees’ rights is crucial for humanitarian aid and promoting stability both in Thailand and Myanmar.
In light of the increasing influx of refugees from Myanmar due to ongoing instability following the military coup, Thai MP Rangsiman Rome has articulated the urgent need for reform to manage this humanitarian crisis. As the chair of the Thai House Committee on National Security and deputy leader of the People’s Party, Rome highlights the critical requirement for Thailand to register the refugees, thereby providing them with legal status and access to essential services, such as education and healthcare, as well as the opportunity to contribute to the economy through taxation. In an exclusive interview with Voice of America (VOA), Rome expressed his concerns regarding the Thai government’s handling of the situation, noting that many refugees live without legal recognition and are vulnerable to exploitation and corruption. He pointed out that the instability along the 2,400-kilometer Thai-Myanmar border facilitates illegal activities, including drug trafficking and human trafficking, which have broader implications for regional security. “The immediate step is to register the people,” Rome stated, emphasizing that legal recognition would enable refugees to achieve a semblance of normalcy by accessing necessary resources and contributing economically. He acknowledged that current government policies remain unclear and have contributed to the persistent human rights violations affecting this population. Rome proposed immediate registration of the estimated 6 million Myanmar refugees in Thailand as a viable starting point. He also noted that corruption is rampant, as many refugees are compelled to pay bribes to secure employment, undermining their dignity and rights. He urged for international collaboration from nations like Japan, the United States, and Australia to address the crisis collectively. Contrasting the situation in Thailand, Rome conveyed the dire humanitarian conditions in Myanmar, where millions remain displaced due to violence from the State Administration Council (SAC). He firmly believes that concerted international pressure on the SAC could facilitate the safe return of refugees to their homeland. As regards the criticisms of inter-ministerial coordination, Rome reassured that as chair of the National Security Committee, he is advocating for cohesive strategies to address the refugee situation effectively while upholding human rights protections. He noted the ongoing issues with healthcare access and education for refugees, suggesting a need for reforms in these sectors to ensure that all children, regardless of their nationality, are entitled to the same educational opportunities. Amid rising tensions fueled by economic strain and heightened public focus on crime involving Myanmar refugees, Rome acknowledged the complexities of the situation but reaffirmed the essential contributions of these individuals to Thailand’s economy. He expressed the view that proper management of refugee status would alleviate corruption and foster a more equitable society. In conclusion, MP Rangsiman Rome’s call for urgent reforms and coordinated action embodies a recognition of the complex interplay between humanitarian needs and national security. He underlines the importance of acknowledging the humanity of those seeking refuge and the collective responsibility of both Thailand and the international community to promote stability and dignity for all individuals affected by the crisis.
The article discusses the increasing number of refugees from Myanmar entering Thailand as a consequence of the military coup and ensuing civil unrest in Myanmar. It highlights the challenges faced by these refugees in terms of legal recognition, access to services, and their vulnerability to exploitation. The comments made by MP Rangsiman Rome reflect the broader issues of migration, human rights, and the complexities of international relations within the ASEAN context. The urgency of establishing a formal registration system for refugees is presented as a primary solution to enhance their legal status, education, health care, and opportunities to contribute economically to Thai society while addressing the inherent difficulties posed by corruption and public perceptions.
In closing, MP Rangsiman Rome’s advocacy for the registration of Myanmar refugees in Thailand highlights the critical need for reform amidst a challenging humanitarian situation. By providing legal recognition, the Thai government can not only safeguard the rights of refugees but also integrate them into society, allowing them to contribute positively to the economy. The call for enhanced international collaboration further signifies the necessity of a coordinated response to foster peace and stability in both Thailand and Myanmar.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
