Thai Govt surveying two isles for detention of migrants

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HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Govt surveying two isles for detention of migrants
THE NATION



Prayut rules out permanent shelter, temporary centres planned off Ranong

BANGKOK: -- THE PRIME MINISTER has ordered a survey of two unpopulated islands off Ranong with the view of using them to detain Rohingya migrants.

Sources familiar with the matter yesterday identified the islands as Kangkao and Kam Yai, which are under the care of the Department of National Parks. In a bid to cope with the unabated issue of illegal migrants, the government is finding suitable places to be used as temporary holding centres for Rohingya and other migrants, but will avoid setting up permanent centres, according to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

In response to a proposal by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to establish a multi-country working group to tackle the Rohingya and other migrant issues in this region, he said Thailand's policy was to ensure that illegal migrants were safely repatriated, as it could not accommodate people who entered the country illegally.

According to the prime minister, the government has no budget to pay for sheltering more illegal migrants as there are still more than 100,000 refugees in the country at nine detention centres. However, he said Thailand would work with other countries in the region to address this issue.

A regional conference on migration and human-trafficking problems will be hosted by Thailand on May 29 and will feature senior officials from 15 Indian Ocean countries and other nations.

In addition, police will attend a conference in Bali this weekend where human-trafficking issues will be discussed by 16 Interpol member countries. Prayut said the government had no plans to build new holding centres for illegal migrants.

Panitan Waiwatayakorn, a top government adviser on security issues, said the government would have to handle Rohingya and related issues carefully because Thailand's image in the international community could be negatively affected if migrants were abused by traffickers, as had been the case recently.

He suggested the government consider setting up temporary holding centres, although it would have to take into account the cost of building them and the sentiment of the people in the areas where they would be situated. It would also have to weigh the pros and cons of building them, because their existence could encourage more illegal migrants into Thailand, he said.

However, if the government did nothing, the issue would worsen and the country's image would be hit hard, since the international community viewed Rohingya and some other migrant groups as political victims rather than economic refugees.

Panitan said the UNHCR could play a crucial role in this effort and Thailand could work with neighbouring countries to resolve the issue, adding that the government needed to base its human-trafficking policy and actions on immigration laws, the universal convention on sea safety and humanitarian principles.

Pol Colonel Worawat Amornwiwat, deputy chief of the Immigration Bureau, will represent Thailand at the Bali conference, along with officials from 15 other countries.

Interpol officials from various countries will share information and set guidelines to work together because international criminal syndicates are involved in trafficking activities across national borders.

Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia to stop pushing back boats carrying Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants and asylum seekers, and bring them ashore and provide desperately needed aid.

As many as 8,000 Rohingya and Bangladeshis are believed to be stranded in boats in the Andaman Sea and Malacca Strait without adequate food, water or sanitation, the International Organisation for Migration reported.

On Sunday, more than 2,000 people landed in Langkawi in Malaysia and in Indonesia's Aceh province after weeks at sea. They said they had not eaten in days and they suffered from serious health ailments from the cramped and unsanitary conditions on board the smugglers' boats.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/national/Govt-surveying-two-isles-for-detention-of-migrants-30260148.html


-- The Nation 2015-05-15

[Robby nz]

For a start.

No way MR PM do not put them on islands in National Parks they will destroy the islands and the surrounding sea.

Right now, something does have to be done but it is not an easy problem to resolve. As we see from previous reports a fair proportion of these people, while they are victims of the traffickers, did get on these boats voluntarily looking for better economic conditions, work, jobs, a better chance at life.

That makes them economic migrants rather than refugees and there is a difference.

Fair enough if they are real refugees treat them as such under international convention but if they are just here looking for a better life then why treat them any different to someone from Lao or Cambodia who has come here looking for a job.

An additional problem with these people is their adherence to the so called religion of peace which has been stigmatized by some and has now tainted all its adherents to the extent that there will always be suspicion that their presence will either cause problems or increase those the country already has.

That one of course doesn't apply to the countries to the south of TL.

[steven100]

'Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia to stop pushing back boats carrying Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants and asylum seekers, and bring them ashore and provide desperately needed aid.'

yeah sure boss ... we won't push them back .....

[EricBerg]

Human trafficking is a billion dollar industry. Thousands are helped in or lured into illegal migration. Quite understandable that Thailand does not want to give the thousands of Rohingya and Bangladeshi permanent residency or shelter. As the EU does not want the tens of thousands trying to cross the Medittaranian and try to live illegally in some EU country. Or as the USA try to prevent tens of thousands to enter. But under no circumstances one can let people drown or starve. And one must try to prevent people from being exploited as slaves in fishery, farming, domestic work, prostitution or any other business.

Chosing one or two islands to allow the refugees on temporarily is a good choice. They must have basics as food, water and a roof over their heads. The international community must try to cooperate to find a solution for these people. Myanmar and Bangladesh must be pressured to take them back and provide an acceptable life for them.

Same as with other big problems: there are no fast solutions. But human decency always must prevail.

Edited May 15, 2015 by EricBerg

[TomJoad]

"Even Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning democracy champion, has failed to come to their defense, with critics saying she is reluctant to alienate her supporters among the Buddhist majority."

- yahoo news (today)

Even she is disowning them now..? What chance have they got in Myanmar?

[steven100]

I have previously said .. the only solution to the refugee problem is allow and make 3-4 islands in the Indian ocean become there permanent home. Build cabins, water treatment plants, power, roads, transport.

Have them work to establish a viable community with the long term goal of self sufficiency. They can grow there own food, farm there own animals, fish & whatever else is needed to feed them.

Each country puts in say 2% of their GDP to funds this project for the first two years and then after that it stops and they have to become self sufficient.

After 2 years you would have viable communities living and supporting themselves.

This is the way to go imo.....

[dcutman]

For a start.

No way MR PM do not put them on islands in National Parks they will destroy the islands and the surrounding sea.

Right now, something does have to be done but it is not an easy problem to resolve. As we see from previous reports a fair proportion of these people, while they are victims of the traffickers, did get on these boats voluntarily looking for better economic conditions, work, jobs, a better chance at life.

That makes them economic migrants rather than refugees and there is a difference.

Fair enough if they are real refugees treat them as such under international convention but if they are just here looking for a better life then why treat them any different to someone from Lao or Cambodia who has come here looking for a job.

An additional problem with these people is their adherence to the so called religion of peace which has been stigmatized by some and has now tainted all its adherents to the extent that there will always be suspicion that their presence will either cause problems or increase those the country already has.

That one of course doesn't apply to the countries to the south of TL.

This same problem has existed for decades now and every country concerned has had that opportunity to solve it. All these govts and the UNHCR have turned a blind eye, possibly conspired, to keep this cheap labor flowing into its countries. Well they all got caught, and now its time to pay the piper. And unless they want the world to watch them deal with 8000 rotting corpses, they need to stop pointing fingers and agree on a temporary solution quick.

[2fishin2]

I have previously said .. the only solution to the refugee problem is allow and make 3-4 islands in the Indian ocean become there permanent home. Build cabins, water treatment plants, power, roads, transport.

Have them work to establish a viable community with the long term goal of self sufficiency. They can grow there own food, farm there own animals, fish & whatever else is needed to feed them.

Each country puts in say 2% of their GDP to funds this project for the first two years and then after that it stops and they have to become self sufficient.

After 2 years you would have viable communities living and supporting themselves.

This is the way to go imo.....

Good thing you dont have influence in society

[Robby nz]

I have previously said .. the only solution to the refugee problem is allow and make 3-4 islands in the Indian ocean become there permanent home. Build cabins, water treatment plants, power, roads, transport.

Have them work to establish a viable community with the long term goal of self sufficiency. They can grow there own food, farm there own animals, fish & whatever else is needed to feed them.

Each country puts in say 2% of their GDP to funds this project for the first two years and then after that it stops and they have to become self sufficient.

After 2 years you would have viable communities living and supporting themselves.

This is the way to go imo.....

I think if you were to have a look round any islands that are viable (big enough) for human habitation are already taken (occupied) and are claimed by one country or another.

Other than those set aside as national parks or conservation areas and those should be sacrosanct as their value is far greater as they are.

Even small rocks and reefs miles from anywhere are claimed for their fisheries and oil potential, however if you know of anyplace that would be suitable I am sure there are those who would be willing to take up your suggestion.

[steven100]

I have previously said .. the only solution to the refugee problem is allow and make 3-4 islands in the Indian ocean become there permanent home. Build cabins, water treatment plants, power, roads, transport.

Have them work to establish a viable community with the long term goal of self sufficiency. They can grow there own food, farm there own animals, fish & whatever else is needed to feed them.

Each country puts in say 2% of their GDP to funds this project for the first two years and then after that it stops and they have to become self sufficient.

After 2 years you would have viable communities living and supporting themselves.

This is the way to go imo.....

I think if you were to have a look round any islands that are viable (big enough) for human habitation are already taken (occupied) and are claimed by one country or another.

Other than those set aside as national parks or conservation areas and those should be sacrosanct as their value is far greater as they are.

Even small rocks and reefs miles from anywhere are claimed for their fisheries and oil potential, however if you know of anyplace that would be suitable I am sure there are those who would be willing to take up your suggestion.

If there's no islands then i guess we have to put em in the desert .... they would probably cry foul then ...

[impulse]

May I suggest the Spratly's or Paracels.

That would certainly stir the pot...

[steven100]

I have previously said .. the only solution to the refugee problem is allow and make 3-4 islands in the Indian ocean become there permanent home. Build cabins, water treatment plants, power, roads, transport.

Have them work to establish a viable community with the long term goal of self sufficiency. They can grow there own food, farm there own animals, fish & whatever else is needed to feed them.

Each country puts in say 2% of their GDP to funds this project for the first two years and then after that it stops and they have to become self sufficient.

After 2 years you would have viable communities living and supporting themselves.

This is the way to go imo.....

Good thing you dont have influence in society

so leave em at sea ? glad your not the decision maker ... lol ..

there's no easy solution .. that's for sure :/

[trogers]

'Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia to stop pushing back boats carrying Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants and asylum seekers, and bring them ashore and provide desperately needed aid.'

yeah sure boss ... we won't push them back .....

Funded by HRW? We can give them 5-star lodging, Sir...

[AlQaholic]

Put them on Koh Tarutao, the good old prison Island where many oh so important persons has stayed. They will be in exalted company there.

[Robby nz]

For a start.

No way MR PM do not put them on islands in National Parks they will destroy the islands and the surrounding sea.

Right now, something does have to be done but it is not an easy problem to resolve. As we see from previous reports a fair proportion of these people, while they are victims of the traffickers, did get on these boats voluntarily looking for better economic conditions, work, jobs, a better chance at life.

That makes them economic migrants rather than refugees and there is a difference.

Fair enough if they are real refugees treat them as such under international convention but if they are just here looking for a better life then why treat them any different to someone from Lao or Cambodia who has come here looking for a job.

An additional problem with these people is their adherence to the so called religion of peace which has been stigmatized by some and has now tainted all its adherents to the extent that there will always be suspicion that their presence will either cause problems or increase those the country already has.

That one of course doesn't apply to the countries to the south of TL.

This same problem has existed for decades now and every country concerned has had that opportunity to solve it. All these govts and the UNHCR have turned a blind eye, possibly conspired, to keep this cheap labor flowing into its countries. Well they all got caught, and now its time to pay the piper. And unless they want the world to watch them deal with 8000 rotting corpses, they need to stop pointing fingers and agree on a temporary solution quick.

I suspect what we have here (and in the Med) is far from cheap labor, rather the present situation in SEA is brought on by the callousness of some countries (one in particular) in the way they treat their noncitizens, and those human traffickers who would take advantage of that in promising the hapless a better life.

I don't know the solution to this and I doubt the rest of the world does either for we see in some western countries that the inflow of refugees, migrants , call them what you will, has had a detrimental effect on these countries.

[Strangebrew]

Hey I got a great Idea The US needs to kick China out of south China sea take over the island there building relocate all of them there form there own country.

[shaurene]

I have previously said .. the only solution to the refugee problem is allow and make 3-4 islands in the Indian ocean become there permanent home. Build cabins, water treatment plants, power, roads, transport.

Have them work to establish a viable community with the long term goal of self sufficiency. They can grow there own food, farm there own animals, fish & whatever else is needed to feed them.

Each country puts in say 2% of their GDP to funds this project for the first two years and then after that it stops and they have to become self sufficient.

After 2 years you would have viable communities living and supporting themselves.

This is the way to go imo.....

I would agree with your suggestions but the problem is these country's putting the money in. The west are shouting their heads off, they should offer to put money in.

[maidee]

export them to muslim countries, it are there brothers after all

[quandow]

What's the matter with places they were already using?

[Orac]

The irony is that in 20/30 years Thailand and many other countries will be crying our working age migrants to sustain their aging populations.

[impulse]

I have previously said .. the only solution to the refugee problem is allow and make 3-4 islands in the Indian ocean become there permanent home. Build cabins, water treatment plants, power, roads, transport.

Have them work to establish a viable community with the long term goal of self sufficiency. They can grow there own food, farm there own animals, fish & whatever else is needed to feed them.

Each country puts in say 2% of their GDP to funds this project for the first two years and then after that it stops and they have to become self sufficient.

After 2 years you would have viable communities living and supporting themselves.

This is the way to go imo.....

I would agree with your suggestions but the problem is these country's putting the money in. The west are shouting their heads off, they should offer to put money in.

My concern with steven100's plan is that this will be a multi-generational problem. After decades of being denied basic rights, including education, what chance do these folks have of self-supporting communities given their stock in trade is living off the sea- and that's becoming increasingly difficult as technology allows corporations to hoover up everything from top to bottom?

I do agree with shaurene that this (like the problem in the Med) is going to have to be solved on an international basis and not just dumped on the countries that are affected by virtue of geography. And that means the wealthy countries paying their share...

Edited May 15, 2015 by impulse

[tonbridgebrit]

People tend to forget that Thailand has spent years (decades) allowing a vast number of illegal immigrant workers to stay and work in Thailand. The illegals are exploited by Thai people who have money, and Thailand also extorts money from the illegals. Illegal migrant workers know that they can still enter and stay in Thailand, some of them have already got family members in Thailand.

Thailand should have had a policy starting decades ago, a policy of not allowing illegal migrant workers to stay in Thailand. The numbers have grown massively. Right now, what we're seeing is the latest batch of illegals trying to enter Thailand. The problem should have been stopped much earlier, but it wasn't, the problem is now far bigger.

[otherstuff1957]

This is not a problem that will go away or can be easily solved. Although this wave of refugees is the result of oppressive government policies, some parts of the world seem to have reached their carrying capacity and more and more people will be moving simply because more land is not being created but more people are!

In the near future almost every country will be forced to answer this question: "How many more people will we let in?" Countries that are relatively prosperous, peaceful and close to poor, strife torn countries will be under tremendous pressure as ever larger waves of refugees keep coming.

I don't see any easy answers.

[dcutman]

The irony is that in 20/30 years Thailand and many other countries will be crying our working age migrants to sustain their aging populations.

In 20/30 years? Thailand is crying about that already and have been for many years. In 2013 they signed an MOU to import 50,000 Bangladeshis to work in fishing and construction industries. http://www.mol.go.th/en/anonymouse/news/32967

Just the other day a report came out that Thailand will need up to 600,000 additional migrant workers in the next few years to fill all the shiit jobs nobody else wants to do. http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/821051-shortage-of-labour-in-thailand-likely-to-reach-300000-600000-in-next-3-5-years/

Another fact is, Thailand already has and have had thousands of Rohingya working in certain industries for years, albeit forced, child and slave labor for the most part, non the less they have been working here.

This is all about loosing face right now for Thailand and the same goes for Malaysia and Indonesia as those two countries have huge populations of both Rohingya and Bangladeshis working.

[skildpadden]

There is no easy solution to this- Europe is facing the exact same problems with immigrants landing on the shores of Italy. Of course the people in the boats should be helped, but at the same time you want to discourage others of embarking these vessels.

However this also shows the complete uselessness of ASEAN - all they can do is shake hands twice a year, but they cannot put pressure on one of their member states (Myanmar) to behave in a fairly responsible way towards inhabitants of their country. The same goes to UNHCR who shows that the organization cannot do anything at all when it comes to putting words into action. The problem has existed for years but has been ignored by the states in ASEAN but instead enjoyed a source of cheap (slave) labour.

I believe it is correct though to view them as economic migrants more than actual refugees - and treat them in such a way. They also have the option of moving towards Bangladesh (which is also Muslim), India and China but they are apparently not choosing this option. If you are really fleeing for your life, why aren't you running for the nearest border to get to safety?

[Ocicat]

Will they be able to do their 90 reporting from an island?

[NickJ]

Muslim boat people that nobody wants.....Going to get there own island. Food and medical supplies.Have a high population growth....I would think ten to twenty years down the road the will have had a more than fair chance at radicalization and time to fine hone explosive manufacturing. They will be able to help out in the Thai south as well.

[BarnicaleBob]

My first concern is the Thai government's reason to want to build temporary camps on islands for these people. They are not suggesting this out of empathy but out of fear of loosing face in the international community. Wrong reason!

Where is the empathy of the Thai people in this, there appears to be none. The nine camps the Thai government set up for Burmese refugees were also suppose to have been temporary and look how many decades they have been in existence.

Any plan that any government makes for these people needs to include a place for a final settlement of these people.

With that in mind; we know almost all of the refugees are Muslim who would most likely prefer to settle in a Muslim country. The vast majority of them are Rohingya from Burma, who have been strongly discriminated against by the Buddhist majority to the point of whole villages being attacked and hundreds being murdered at a time. They seek to resettle in Malaysia or Indonesia because those countries have Muslim majority populations.

Perhaps calling on economically strong Muslim nations such as Saudi Arabia to step up to the plate to fund resettlement would be the better solution to this issue.

[Baerboxer]

export them to muslim countries, it are there brothers after all

Many of the more wealthy Muslim countries rely on using cheap foreign labor - UAE, Qatar, KSA, etc. Much of this labor already comes from the Indian sub-continent, which is also the Rhoingya ethnicity.

They could take a lot of these people instead of recruiting more from India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. But of course, they only normally want male labor, that can live in crappy camps, not their families too.

[Liquorice]

Can't help but feel it would be a different scenario if these migrants weren't mostly Muslims.

There are already conflictions, tensions and violence between the Buddhists and Muslims in the south of Thailand.

These decisions are being made on a religious belief basis in my opinion.