Human-rights cases · Thailand

Alleged arbitrary arrest and detention and lack of access to food, water and adequate housing and other alleged human rights violations of migrant workers in Thailand in the context of the flood crisis. According to information received, migrant workers working and living in Thailand have been arrested and detained for travelling outside of their permitted areas of work or for lack of identification documents as they have escaped flooded areas to seek shelter, reunite with relatives, or return to their countries of origin. Many of the arrests and detention have allegedly occurred in Mae Sot, Tak Province, at the border with Myanmar. Reports of lack of access to food and water for migrants whilst in detention or in certain areas due to migrant workers being excluded from distribution of food and other essential items according to house registration records have also been received. It is further alleged that migrant workers have been denied access to emergency shelters as some facilities have allegedly been open to Thai citizens only, whilst other shelters have required the holding of a recommendation or certificate from the Ministry of Labour. According to information received, migrant workers have furthermore had difficulties in accessing assistance due to poor or little access to information. Deportation of migrants from Thailand to Myanmar have also been reported which could be in violation of the obligation of non-refoulement. Alleged victims: - More details...