Monitoring the Immigration Situation of Migrant Workers in Thailand during the Years 2013 and 2023

Abstract

Background and Objectives: International labor migration is a crucial factor driving the economic development of various countries. In Thailand, there has been a substantial influx of migrant workers, particularly following the easing of the COVID-19 pandemic. To enhance the understanding of the patterns and characteristics of the distribution of migrant workers entering Thailand, this makes the researcher feel interested in studying the migration situations and distribution of migrant workers within the country during the years 2013 and 2023. The focus is on analyzing the spatial distribution and occupational characteristics of migrant workers from CLMV countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam).  

Methods: This research adopted a quantitative approach, beginning with an analysis of the reported data on migrant workers registered with the Department of Employment between 2013 and 2023. The data were presented in the form of descriptive statistics using frequency distribution tables. The findings were then analyzed through the theoretical framework of migration laws and international labor movement theories.  

Results:  The results indicated that the number of migrant workers has shown an increasing trend, rising from 1,183,835 in 2013 to 2,613,373 in 2023, an increase of 1,429,518 workers. The primary factor behind this rise is the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Thai government in 2018, which facilitated the formal importation of labor from Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia, leading to a significant increase in the number of migrant workers. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic (2019-2020), the number of migrant workers decreased but rebounded as the pandemic situation eased. The majority of migrant workers are in Bangkok, with 607,540 workers, accounting for 23.25% of the total. This is followed by Samut Sakhon, Samut Prakan, and Chonburi, with Yasothon having the fewest migrant workers at approximately 533. Regionally, in 2023, Bangkok and its metropolitan area had the highest number of migrant workers, followed by the Eastern and Southern regions, while the Northeastern region had the fewest. Focusing on the CLMV group, the study found that in 2023, the majority of migrant workers came from Myanmar (1,708,739 workers, 62.66%), followed by Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, respectively. Most of these workers are employed in the industrial sector, followed by the service and agricultural sectors.  

Application of this study:  The findings of this study can be applied to better understand the migration situations and distribution of migrant workers during the period from 2013 to 2023. Additionally, it provides a foundation for understanding the employment patterns of migrant workers, particularly those from the CLMV group, who have come to work in Thailand. This knowledge can be used as a framework for planning future professional skill development for these migrant workers. This study can serve as a basis for relevant agencies to support the planning of professional skill development and the management of migrant workers to align with labor market demands. However, the study is limited to data on officially registered migrant workers and does not include unregistered or undocumented migrants.  

Conclusions: Over the past decade, from 2013 to 2023, Thailand has experienced a significant increase in the number of migrant workers, primarily from Myanmar. The majority of these workers are unskilled and are predominantly employed in the manufacturing, construction, and agricultural sectors. The spatial distribution of migrant workers indicates a concentration in large provinces with high economic activity, resulting in fewer migrant workers relocating to peripheral urban areas. So, to ensure sustainable labor development, Thailand must implement policies for managing and upskilling migrant workers to equip them with the necessary skills to adapt swiftly to changes and meet the demands of the domestic labor market. Such measures are essential for fostering the country’s economic stability.