Youth Migration Dialogue Amplifies Myanmar Youth Voices on International Migrants Day

Representatives from civil society, academics, business, government agencies, and youth join the Migration Youth Dialogue: Challenges and Prospects for Myanmar Youth – Collaborating for safer and more inclusive migration pathways at the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.

On 16 December 2025, civil society, academics, private sector actors, government representatives, and young people gathered at the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, for the Youth Migration Dialogue: Challenges and Prospects for Myanmar Youth – Collaborating for safer and more inclusive migration pathways. The event was co-organised by Finn Church Aid (FCA) Thailand, the Network of Religious and Traditional Peacemakers (NRTP), Spirit in Education Movement (SEM), the Asian Research Center for Migration (ARCM), and the Center for Social Development Studies (CSDS), with support from the Faculty of Political Science. 

Held in recognition of International Migrants Day, the dialogue responded to a pressing reality: since the 2021 political crisis in Myanmar, conflict and economic collapse have forced large numbers of youth to seek safety and opportunity in Thailand. For many, migration is not only a search for work or education—but a journey between fear and hope, marked by disrupted education, family separation, irregular status, and daily uncertainty. 

In her opening remarks, H.E. Kristiina Kuvaja-Xanthopoulos, Ambassador of Finland to Thailand, underlined Finland’s commitment to inclusive development and meaningful youth participation. She emphasized that young people must be at the centre of development and peacebuilding efforts.

H.E. Kristiina Kuvaja-Xanthopoulos, Finland’s Ambassador to Thailand, addressed her opening remark by underlining Finland’s commitment to inclusive development and meaningful youth participation.

The morning sessions presented key findings from two major studies: a Labour Market Assessment for Myanmar Youth in Thailand and research on the economic and social impact of granting work rights to refugees. Together, the evidence showed that Myanmar migrants contribute significantly to Thailand’s economy, yet still face obstacles such as irregular status, documentation barriers, exploitation, social exclusion, and limited access to decent work. At the same time, inclusive labour and migration policies can benefit both migrants and Thai society by filling labourgaps, supporting social stability, and reducing protection risks. 

In the afternoon, a panel discussion brought together Myanmar youth, civil society and business representatives to reflect on lived experiences behind the data. They discussed the gaps between policy and practice, the challenges of navigating complex documentation systems, and the importance of evidence-based policy, fair recruitment, and accessible education.  

A Myanmar migrant representative shares his challenges in living and working in Thailand.

The Youth Forum placed Myanmar youth at the centre of the conversation. Myanmar youth participants spoke candidly about their concern on forced conscription, discrimination at work, and the emotional toll of living far from home. At the same time, they shared stories of friendship, mutual support, and determination to contribute to both Thai communities and their homeland. 

One youth representative captured the spirit of the day in the closing remarks: 

“Migration is not just a topic for us – it is our real life. Today was special because our stories were truly heard. We don’t want to be seen only as victims. We want to be partners in finding solutions.” 

Youth participants expressed gratitude for a safe and inclusive space where they could speak openly with decision-makers. They called for supporting safer, more inclusive migration pathways and stronger, more cohesive communities. 

The event closed with a shared commitment: to turn research into action, deepen collaboration across sectors, and ensure that Myanmar youth on the move are not defined by their vulnerabilities, but recognised as agents of change in building more inclusive, just and resilient societies for all.