Bangkok:The Democrat Party (DP) has received the draft Foreign Workers Management Act from the Southern Border Provinces Administration Center (SBAC). This proposal includes the establishment of a central Non-Trade Management Organization (NMMO) to centralize data and address issues related to foreign workers competing for jobs with Thai citizens, along with improving welfare benefits across borders.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Kardee Leowpairoj, a Member of Parliament and Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party, along with Ms. Radklao Suwannakiri and the party's strategic team, received the draft from Mr. Sakchai Thammapreechathavorn, President of the Association of Foreign Labor Importers and Service Providers (AFLM). This draft will undergo study, analysis, and consideration for systematic management of migrant workers and foreign nationals in Thailand.
Dr. Kardee highlighted the structural challenges Thailand faces, such as an aging society and a declining working-age population, which make the country heavily reliant on foreign or migrant workers in its manufacturing sector and economy. Government data indicates that about 3 million foreign workers are legally employed, with more than three-quarters being Myanmar nationals. However, many workers remain undocumented, leading to competition for jobs with Thai workers and issues related to welfare and healthcare access.
Mr. Sakchai explained that the draft bill aims to address the fragmented operations of government agencies by proposing the NMMO as a government agency under the Prime Minister's Office. This office would act as the National Process Owner, with the Bureau of Border Patrol Police overseeing central processes, establishing standards for electronic data systems, and verifying various aspects related to foreign workers from their entry to exit.
The draft law is not intended to alter citizenship criteria or promote permanent settlement. Rather, it serves as a preliminary framework inviting discussion among political parties, the government, the business sector, and academics to identify the most appropriate model for Thailand.
The Democrat Party is prepared to study the draft in collaboration with relevant sectors, focusing on safeguarding job opportunities and wages for Thai citizens, while utilizing foreign labor as necessary. The party emphasizes the importance of the rule of law, human rights, and sustainably protecting the country's best interests.