Report Thailand Extends Stay for Cambodian Workers Amid Border Tensions

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Photo of military attachés from 47 foreign embassies attending a special briefing at the army headquarters courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

In a significant move, the Thai Cabinet has approved a six-month extension for Cambodian migrant workers employed in border provinces. This decision comes in response to changes in border checkpoint operating hours across seven provinces, impacting the movement of these workers.

 

Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub highlighted that recent unrest along the Thai-Cambodian border, coupled with stricter border control measures, has complicated re-entry for many Cambodian workers. These individuals, employed under Section 64 of Thailand's executive decree on the management of foreign workers, typically rely on border passes for entry and exit.

 

Due to the new travel restrictions, many workers have been unable to exit Thailand to renew their legal status, resulting in overstays and illegal residence. As of June, 47,348 Cambodian workers were affected, with their work permits due to expire by the end of September, Jirayu noted.

 

The Cabinet's decision grants a special exemption, allowing these workers to remain in Thailand for employment in the border regions for six months. This grace period, effective from 7th June, coincides with the start of the Interior Ministry’s border control measures. It will last until normal border crossings resume for at least a month.

 

Moreover, the Cabinet agreed to waive overstay fines for workers who have exceeded the legal limit due to these exceptional circumstances.

 

On a related note, tensions heightened yesterday, 22nd July, when the Royal Thai Army (RTA) briefed defence attachés from 47 embassies regarding the situation after three Thai soldiers from the 6th Infantry Regiment were injured by a landmine.

 

Thai authorities indicated that the anti-personnel mine explosion, allegedly planted in Thai territory, violates the Ottawa Convention, which both Thailand and Cambodia have ratified.

 

In response, the Second Army Region warned that the Prasat Ta Muean Thom temple in Surin’s Phanom Dong Rak district could be closed for a week if Cambodia doesn't prevent further incidents. Commander Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang stressed Thailand’s dedication to peaceful resolutions but cautioned against provocation. This warning followed reports of 23 Cambodian tour buses arriving at the contested site, causing unrest concerns.

 

The developments reflect a delicate balance between diplomatic negotiations and asserting territorial integrity, with economic implications for the border workforce who earnestly seek stability. With the exemption, these workers can continue supporting their families, contributing to local economies to the tune of approximately 52,000 Thai Baht monthly, per worker.

 

As Thailand extends a temporary lifeline to these workers, all eyes remain on diplomatic efforts to ease tensions, aiming for a harmonious resolution to border disputes.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-23