Border ‘closure’ hits both Cambodian migrant workers and Thai economy – Nikkei Asia

Impact of Thai-Cambodian Border Closure on Migrant Workers and Economy

Background

The Thai government has decided to virtually close all land borders with Cambodia. This decision has significant implications for approximately 1.2 million Cambodian migrant workers and the Thai economy.

Context of the Border Closure

The closure follows escalating tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. The conflict intensified after the killing of a Cambodian soldier in a disputed border area in late May. Since then, both countries have engaged in a series of retaliatory rhetoric and official measures aimed at impacting each other.

Implications for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

• The border closure disrupts the livelihoods of 1.2 million Cambodian migrant workers who contribute to economic growth in both countries.
• Reduced labor mobility may lead to decreased productivity and economic instability in border regions.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

• Migrant workers, often vulnerable populations, face increased economic and social challenges due to restricted movement.
• The closure may exacerbate inequalities between migrant workers and local populations.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

• The border dispute highlights the need for peaceful resolution mechanisms to prevent conflict escalation.
• Strengthening diplomatic relations and conflict resolution aligns with promoting peace and stability in the region.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

• Cross-border cooperation is essential to address shared challenges such as migration, security, and economic development.
• Collaborative efforts between Thailand and Cambodia can support sustainable development and regional stability.

Conclusion

1. The Thai government’s border closure has significant socio-economic impacts, particularly on migrant workers and bilateral economic relations.
2. Addressing these challenges requires adherence to Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on decent work, reducing inequalities, peacebuilding, and international partnerships.
3. Effective dialogue and cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia are critical to mitigating negative effects and promoting sustainable development in the region.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – The article highlights the impact on Cambodian migrant workers and the Thai economy, linking directly to employment and economic stability.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – The situation affects migrant workers, a vulnerable group, pointing to issues of inequality and social inclusion.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – The border conflict and diplomatic tensions relate to peace, security, and conflict resolution.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 8 Targets:
   • Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.
   • Target 8.8: Protect labor rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrant workers.
2. SDG 10 Targets:
   • Target 10.7: Facilitate orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration and mobility of people, including through the implementation of planned and well-managed migration policies.
3. SDG 16 Targets:
   • Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
   • Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 8:
   • Indicator 8.5.2: Unemployment rate, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
   • Indicator 8.8.1: Frequency rates of fatal and non-fatal occupational injuries, by sex and migrant status.
2. For SDG 10:
   • Indicator 10.7.1: Recruitment cost borne by employee as a proportion of yearly income earned in country of destination.
   • Indicator 10.7.2: Number of countries that have implemented well-managed migration policies.
3. For SDG 16:
   • Indicator 16.1.4: Proportion of population that feel safe walking alone around the area they live.
   • Indicator 16.7.2: Proportion of population who believe decision-making is inclusive and responsive.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: asia.nikkei.com