Migration policy needs overhaul

Thailand should promote and encourage all origin countries of irregular workers to issue passports to their irregular workers in Thailand (and the Thai authorities likewise reciprocate by issuing visas and work permits) in ways that are cost effective, transparent and swift. Myanmar has requested this and was rebuffed, now Cambodia also.

Thailand should enforce the rule of law in migration management, and systematic corruption should end.

Border security should be strengthened to prevent against new irregular entries (most migrants come in through smuggling/trafficking networks which law enforcement officials know about, as they are paid off). But at the same time, systems need to be made more cost effective, transparent and swift so workers and employers are advantaged by using these formal channels. Both overland and air entries should be allowed. Regulation of recruitment agencies and brokers, who are important actors in migration management, is urgently needed.

The NV process should not be extended or continued; it has descended into unregulated, corrupt chaos and is now completely flooded with fake/doctored documents.

My intention in making these recommendations is primarily to protect migrants from continued systematic rights abuses, as the burden always falls on them and not employers or officials. But what I suggest, I am sure is best for the economy and national security of the country also.