Rights advocates report Thailand’s slow progress in implementing its asylum program, which remains underutilized due to fears among potential applicants of police exposure and the program’s restrictive eligibility criteria.
BANGKOK — Rights advocates highlight Thailand’s slow progress in implementing an asylum program aimed at vulnerable refugees amid rising cross-border repression in Southeast Asia. Many potential applicants fear exposing themselves to the police and face risks if they come forward. Currently, Thailand does not officially recognize refugees and categorizes anyone without valid documentation as illegal migrants.
The National Screening Mechanism (NSM), introduced last September, offers “protected persons status” to those unable to return home due to persecution fears. However, only a few applicants have been granted asylum under the program, with many still awaiting decisions. Human rights organizations express concerns over the program’s narrow eligibility rules and the government’s broad discretion to reject applicants based on national security.
Advocates urge the Thai government to enhance awareness of the NSM, hire more interpreters, and shift responsibility to the Interior Ministry for a more humanitarian approach. Despite its flaws, many view the NSM as a small but positive step in providing some level of protection for refugees in Thailand. Once approved, refugees can remain legally, enjoying protection from forced returns.
Source : Thailand grants few asylum claims in first year of program
