Latest Update on Assistance for Displaced Persons – 12 May 2026
by Chantaburi Migrant Workers Assistance Center

As of 6 May 2026, 15 workers from Mae La traveled to work in Chanthaburi after being informed that they would be employed in durian sorting work with agreed wages, overtime pay, and free accommodation and meals. However, upon arrival, the workers were assigned to mangosteen sorting and heavy lifting under excessive working hours of up to approximately 19 hours per day, with limited rest periods and no days off. Some workers had not received wages and were burdened with additional debts, while their documents were retained by the employer. When the workers requested to resign, the employer demanded payment and threatened to call the police. Relevant authorities, including the Migrant Worker Assistance Centers of Chanthaburi and Tak, coordinated emergency assistance and supported the workers’ return to Mae La on 8 May 2026. The case reflects several indicators associated with the risk of forced labor, including excessive working hours, document retention, and debt-related coercion linked to employment.

The Migrant Worker Assistance Center of Chanthaburi, in coordination with the Migrant Worker Assistance Center of Tak, provided assistance and coordination for a group of migrant workers who wished to return to the camp due to a conflict with their employer.