Bangkok: The Minister of Labour has announced amendments to the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Thailand and Myanmar, aiming to integrate approximately 4 million Myanmar workers into the welfare benefits system and extend their employment periods to five years.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat, the Minister of Labour, revealed plans to submit the updated MOU to the Cabinet for approval. This initiative is designed to streamline the registration process for workers under the new agreement, thereby extending contract durations to five years to better accommodate the needs of the industrial sector. Additionally, non-agricultural workers will have the opportunity to sign contracts for up to two years. Preparations are also being made to incorporate all Myanmar workers into Thailand's social security system.

Mr. Chulaphan elaborated on the ongoing discussions between Thailand and Myanmar following the latter's elections, emphasizing the need for a new MOU. He highlighted that the Myanmar government is actively collaborating with Thailand to ensure the protection and rights of Myanmar workers in alignment with human rights principles and International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions.

The Thai government is currently addressing minor amendments, such as the renaming of the Myanmar ministry and the extension of the MOU duration to five years. This extension aims to facilitate the complete legal registration of all workers. For non-agricultural sectors, the MOU may allow for shorter contract periods to suit the industry's requirements, with non-agricultural workers being eligible for contracts of up to two years. The legal procedures for these amendments are underway, with plans to present them to the Cabinet within the month.

Mr. Chulaphan acknowledged the significant contribution of the approximately 4 million Myanmar workers to Thailand's economy, stressing the importance of providing them with welfare standards equivalent to those offered to Thai citizens. This includes integrating them into the social security system for benefits such as illness, unemployment, and medical treatment, in line with international standards. He noted that currently, some worker groups, like domestic workers, lack access to the social security system. The Ministry of Labour is drafting legislation to include these independent workers in the system, ensuring comprehensive coverage beyond the basic protection offered under Section 40. Mr. Chulaphan affirmed the ministry's commitment to making the welfare process accessible to all, including migrant workers.