Photo credit: Piyarach Chongcharoen
The government has defended its decision to grant Thai citizenship to migrants and members of ethnic minorities, asserting that the policy complies with the law.
On Tuesday, the cabinet approved a policy that will provide Thai citizenship to over 483,000 migrants and ethnic minorities who have either resided in Thailand for an extended period or were born in the country.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra explained that this decision aims to resolve longstanding issues related to citizenship and residency, while also encouraging economic growth by eliminating bureaucratic obstacles that hinder these individuals from working.
However, the policy has faced criticism from some quarters, who argue that it caters to migrants. Former senator Direkrit Janekrongtham expressed concerns on Facebook, stating that nearly 500,000 migrants are set to receive the same rights and benefits as Thai citizens and are expected to show gratitude and loyalty to the coalition parties supporting the initiative.
He highlighted that these individuals would gain the right to vote in local and national elections, run for office, become members of political parties, form their own political organizations, and participate in referendums. Additionally, they would acquire rights to land and property ownership, join labor unions, and establish their own unions.
“Does the government genuinely prioritize the nation’s interests over political parties’ benefits? Why not adhere to the Nationality Act governing naturalization instead of issuing a cabinet resolution?” Mr. Direkrit questioned.
In response to the backlash, Traisulee Taisaranakul, spokeswoman for the Interior Ministry, clarified that the policy is designed to streamline and enhance the efficiency of the Thai citizenship application process.
“The policy aligns with existing rules and regulations and does not aim to suspend their enforcement. The individuals involved have already applied for Thai citizenship and permanent residence,” she stated.
Traisulee also noted that, under a proposal from the National Security Council (NSC), any newly naturalized citizens found to threaten public safety or national security could have their citizenship revoked based on the Nationality Act.
“This policy adheres to international human rights principles and reflects the government’s commitment to promoting equality,” she added.
Of the over 480,000 individuals granted Thai citizenship, around 340,000 entered Thailand prior to 1999, while the rest were born in the country. According to Traisulee, the previous rules had impeded their ability to earn a decent living in Thailand.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai dismissed criticisms that the policy aims to appease migrants, asserting that it is intended to expedite the citizenship application process.
“The government acts according to the law, and there will be measures in place to monitor these individuals. Their citizenship will be revoked if they act improperly,” stated Phumtham, who also serves as the defense minister.
The policy, proposed by the NSC, accelerates the process of granting legal status to individuals belonging to ethnic minorities residing in Thailand. The prime minister mentioned that there are 825,635 such individuals living in the country, with 483,626 awaiting status confirmation.
Government spokesman Jirayu Huangsab previously indicated that the policy is an update to a 2021 cabinet resolution. He pointed out that Thailand has seen waves of migration, with initial groups arriving as early as 1984 and a second influx between 2005 and 2011.
Additionally, there are children born in Thailand from minority groups and unregistered migrants. Without these new measures, Jirayu estimated that processing their status could take up to 44 years. The revised framework will simplify eligibility checks, allowing applicants to self-certify their qualifications and criminal history instead of undergoing lengthy investigations by multiple agencies.
