Migrant Workers In Thailand Essay

Throughout the ASEAN region, migration plays a particularly key role in the economic development of countries. 5 million of these migrant workers base themselves in Thailand, with the majority coming from Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Myanmar, where the working conditions and pay is often very poor when compared to their neighbour. These migrant workers in Thailand commonly face a number of problems that include language barriers, navigation of different regulations and health care systems, and the temporary nature of migration that often creates difficulties accessing key health care services. In addition to this, many of these workers are undocumented, and in order to never come to the attention of authorities will often never seek help.

In terms of the control of STIs, it has been documented that migrants are more likely to pay for sex and have a higher rate of partner change, increasing both the risk and spread of infection into other areas of the community. As it currently stands, there is a fractured paradigm within STI control, whereby funding and policy of STI programs have prioritized HIV prevention, often leaving other STI programs neglected. …show more content…
This project will develop on the work of The Raks Thai Association, along with several NGO partners and civil society actors and private agencies in establishing a comprehensive HIV strategy for migrant workers. The project will work by utilizing already established clinics, structures and educational practices to refocus more broadly on sexual health and STI control The project will undertake a phased approach, initially working in Mae Sot and Samut Sakhon before expanding to the other regions. Project expansion will be based off success and leanings of first implementation, with a review of organizational capacity and delivery in order to maintain high quality