Translate page with Google

Story Publication logo September 28, 2011

Burmese Migrants: Fishing for a New Life in Thailand

Country:

Author:
image
English

Millions of Burmese cross over to Thailand to escape political, social and economic hardships. But...

SECTIONS
Media file: burmesethailandfish.jpg

Employment opportunities in Burma are scarce because of a repressive government and the country's low per capita income. Over the past 20 years, millions of Burmese have migrated to Thailand expecting to find more work and a better life. They quickly learn that migrant labor conditions in their neighboring country are less than favorable. The Thai billion dollar fishing industry is sustained at the cost of exploited and abused Burmese laborers, including young children. The International Labor Organization argues that the root of the problem is Burma, which should offer more options for workers at home.

RELATED TOPICS

teal halftone illustration of a construction worker holding a helmet under their arm

Topic

Labor Rights

Labor Rights

Support our work

Your support ensures great journalism and education on underreported and systemic global issues