Vulnerabilities and Visibility: Thailand’s Management of Female Domestic Workers from Burma

Abstract

This article examines the difficulties of managing the migration of domestic workers from Burma to Thailand. It suggests that, although measures can be taken to attract registrants, in order for the management process to be successful, policy makers must take into account the acute vulnerabilities associated with domestic service, including workers’ isolation, exposure to sexual harassment and abuse, and lack of legal recognition under Thai labor laws. In addition to tracing recent trends in Burmese labor migration and Thai immigration policy, the article identifies six main challenges faced by migrants. The author’s policy recommendations, influenced by interviews with relevant stakeholders, seek to address these challenges directly, while providing a foundation for better protection, transparency, and enforcement of labor rights in Thailand.