CNI News
23 January 2026
Based on conflicts between Myanmar migrant workers and Thai citizens inside Thailand, some Thai political parties are politically exploiting Myanmar migrant workers, according to migrant worker rights activist U Min Oo, who spoke to CNI News.
He said that clashes between some Myanmar workers and Thai youths have occurred repeatedly in Thailand. In recent days, Thailand’s Department of Employment announced that it would conduct inspections and take strict action against illegal foreign workers inside the country.
U Min Oo told CNI News that some elected Thai political parties are taking advantage of these conflict incidents as opportunities for political gain.
He said:
“Based on this issue, other forms of political exploitation could also arise. Starting from incidents that occurred recently, we are seeing daily conflicts between Myanmar and Thai nationals, arrests, and, in between, criminal acts committed by some migrant workers. These incidents are increasing day by day. Based on this situation, some political parties and candidates contesting elections are including this issue in their campaigns and using it for their benefit. On their social media platforms, we can see advertisements like this. They are incorporating this issue into their party policies, claiming that they are addressing migrant worker problems and related issues in order to protect national security. We are seeing these themes included in their campaign messaging. When this happens, Thai citizens develop misunderstandings and negative perceptions toward Myanmar migrants, and they become more cautious of them. As a result, life becomes increasingly difficult in every aspect—housing, food, and daily living—for migrant workers who are honestly working and earning a living.”
Thai authorities and migrants seen
He added that Myanmar migrant workers have previously experienced political exploitation by politicians in Thailand, and therefore it is extremely important for Myanmar nationals to avoid involvement, as much as possible, in the political and ethnic conflicts of another country.
Another migrant worker rights activist, U Aung Kyaw, told CNI News:
“Regarding this issue, I have lived in Thailand for decades, and we have heard before that migrant workers were exploited by politicians in such ways. However, we do not have concrete evidence. Still, I have heard that they were used through efforts to mobilize manpower, sometimes by offering social assistance or small benefits. This time as well, it cannot be ruled out. Politicians may use or exploit people to achieve their objectives. Therefore, what I want to say in advance is that since this is not our home country, we do not have the right to vote. As guests, we must avoid, as much as possible, involvement in political relations and ethnic conflicts.”
Pheu Thai Party campaigning
Amid these conflict situations, Myanmar nationals are advised to live cautiously and adapt to their surroundings. Migrant worker advocates in Thailand warn that there are also ultra-nationalist Thai groups, and therefore Myanmar migrants need to live carefully, wisely, and with heightened awareness.
Thailand is scheduled to hold an election in February 2026. Political parties are actively campaigning with various policies to win votes, and nationalist groups—referred to as “handlebar mustache nationalists”—are also paying close attention to Myanmar migrant workers, according to reports.
