As climate change accelerates and reshapes the global landscape, Thailand is emerging as a key player in addressing climate-driven migration — both within its borders and across Southeast Asia. With a history deeply intertwined with migration, Thailand’s leadership in managing displacement and fostering resilience will be critical as environmental pressures force populations to move.

Speaking at the opening of “Triumph of the Human Spirit – Capturing the Mosaic of Migrant Lives in Thailand,” a photo exhibition hosted by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), Michiko Ito, Deputy Head of Operations for IOM Thailand, highlighted the nation’s unique position.

Michiki Ito, Deputy Head of Operations for IOM Thailand, speaking at the launch of the Thailand Migration Report 2024 at BACC. Source: IOM Thailand Facebook Page

“Thailand will be one of the most affected by climate change. So inevitably, there will be displacement within Thailand and across the border. Unfortunately, Thailand is surrounded by countries which are not very agile in adapting to changes,” Ito stated. “Thailand is at a crossroads — not only because of the climate change, but also because of the demographic shift that’s happening in Thailand, as well as all the other geopolitical issues facing the region. Thailand’s importance in migration is only going to continue.”

The exhibition, which coincided with International Migrants Day, showcased stories of hope, resilience, and survival from migrant communities across Thailand. One such story featured Chan Tun Aung, a former teacher from Mandalay, Myanmar, who fled to Thailand. Despite struggles with language barriers and employment, he persevered, finding work at a local market in Chiang Rai while nurturing his dream of returning to teaching.

This year’s International #MigrantsDay promoted by the International Organization for Migration.
Source: IOM Thailand Facebook Page

Another account spotlighted Trintrin, a young Myanmar national who arrived in Thailand amidst the current situation in Myanmar. Supported by her Thai employer, a compassionate dentist, Trintrin mastered the Thai language and found a sense of belonging in her new home. 

“My boss is very kind and supportive. When I needed to learn Thai, my boss gave me a book and provided me with a computer to take language courses,” she shared.

The Thailand Migration Report 2024 further underscores the urgency of addressing climate-linked migration. Thailand, as a regional migration hub, faces mounting pressures as extreme weather events like droughts and floods displace vulnerable populations. The report calls for inclusive policies, improved labor protections for migrants, and strategies to support those forced to move due to climate change.

As migration dynamics grow more complex, Thailand’s ability to adapt will shape not only its own resilience but also set a precedent for the broader region. Events like the BACC exhibition highlight the strength and contributions of migrant communities — voices that are central to solutions for a climate-resilient future.

Event banner for the photo exhibition “The Triumph of the Human Spirit: Capturing the Mosaic of Migrant Lives in Thailand” at the BACC. Source: Bangkok Art and Culture Centre Website

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