Millions of Burmese cross over to Thailand to escape political, social and economic hardships. But labor traffickers prevent many Burmese from achieving a better life.
Desperate for Work: Burmese Migrants in the Thai Fishing Industry
Published October 7, 2011
The southeast Asian country of Burma may be best known for its repressive government, but it also has one of the world’s lowest per capita incomes.
Government controls, inefficient financial policies and corruption have stalled the Burmese economy, sending a flood of workers East, looking for a better life. There are two to three million Burmese migrant workers in Thailand, according to Thai government estimates. Most find work in garment factories, constructions sites, and farms. One of the best paying but most dangerous jobs for men is in the fishing industry.
Jesse Hardman talks with Latitudes on WAMU about the story.
Up to 3 million Burmese migrants have flooded into Thailand where employers are taking advantage, mistreating them and often paying little more than slave wages.
Desperate to escape political and economic suffering, many Burmese migrate to Thailand only to discover things can get worse. Millions become victims of exploitation and human trafficking.
Grantee
Jesse Hardman is a reporter and international media development specialist. His work is featured on National Public Radio, TIME.com, and a number of other national and...
