Bangkok: "Rangsiman" is set to address refugee challenges in shelter areas within the Security Committee, aiming to find actionable solutions. He believes effective management will benefit Thailand and ensure no one is marginalized. He urges against using misinformation to discredit others.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Rangsiman Rome, an MP for the People's Party and Chairman of the House Committee on State Security, Border Affairs, Strategy, and National Reform, along with representatives from several other House Committees, received a letter from various organizations. These include the Network of Transnational Population Organizations, the Friends Without Borders Foundation, and the Karen Network of Peace. The letter contained proposals and information concerning refugees escaping conflicts in temporary shelters along the Thai-Myanmar border.
Mr. Rangsiman highlighted the pressing issue of individuals fleeing conflict, particularly those in temporary shelters near the Cambodian border. The recent shift in US policy has significantly affected the care provision in these shelters, which have housed people for over three decades. With budget cuts looming, concerns about the management and care of these individuals have intensified, raising fears about their continued stay in these shelters.
The Security Committee, along with other involved committees and civil society representatives, received the letter to deliberate on the matter. Notably, relevant government bodies such as the National Security Council and various ministries were not invited to this discussion. This is not the first instance of addressing this issue, as a study report has previously been completed and sent to pertinent agencies. However, a conclusive and practical approach is still needed.
Civil society representatives emphasized the importance of transitioning from dependency conditions, suggesting several measures for real implementation. These include the urgent approval of a pilot project by the Thai government to manage refugee work in border areas, collaborative management models involving governmental and civil entities, real access to labor opportunities for refugees, and the promotion of Thai language education in shelters. Additionally, coordination with UNHCR for a comprehensive registration database for refugees is essential to prevent them from becoming hidden populations.
Mr. Rangsiman asserted that it is imperative to address this issue head-on. The Security Committee recognizes the refugees' living conditions and believes it is time for decisive action. He dismissed the notion that potential threats to Thailand stem from these groups, citing their inadequate living conditions. Effective management will benefit Thailand, serving national interests and those fleeing conflict. He stressed the importance of uniting without abandoning or marginalizing anyone and cautioned against using misinformation for discrediting purposes.
The discussions will focus on pragmatic approaches, considering the cessation of financial support from the private sector and NGOs. This topic has been debated extensively, with some successful outcomes like granting citizenship to ethnic groups. However, clarity from the government on the situation of those fleeing conflict remains elusive. Mr. Rangsiman concluded that the groundwork is laid, and it's now time for action.