Mobility, Identity and Contributions of Skilled Burmese Migrant Workers: An Exploratory Study in Bangkok

Authors

  • Myat Mon

Abstract

The steady stream of skilled Burmese migrants flowing into Thailand started after the 1988 uprising. The first generation migrated to Thailand for better employment; and the second generation came along with their parents or came independently for better education and then became skilled workers. The majority of them have now (in the 2000s) attained at least Master’s degrees and work in teaching institutions, engineering industries, and IT (Information Technology) companies. Many well-experienced Burmese professionals have played an important role in the development of the international programs of private educational institutions in Bangkok during the 1990s. Although they have been contributing towards the Thai society and economy for more than a decade or so, they are not willing to make the effort of integration into Thai society. The largest portion of their earnings flowed into the economy of Thailand because of an inefficient banking system, economic instability, and the unpredictable political situation in Burma which led to irregular or limited remittances for investment in Burmese businesses.
However, the 2010 by-election and unprecedented developments in politics and the economy in Burma have started to change the future plan of Burmese skilled migrants.

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