26-3-2024 (BANGKOK) The Social Development and Human Security Ministry addressed concerns on Tuesday regarding the 19 stateless children rescued in Lop Buri, stating they will not be sent back to Myanmar, confirmed Minister Varawut Silpa-archa.
Responding to public worries about the safety of the children, Minister Varawut highlighted an existing bilateral agreement between Thailand and Myanmar, dating back three decades, safeguarding children’s rights. He emphasized that the ministry bears full responsibility for the welfare of these children, making any attempt to repatriate them unfeasible.
The rescue operation occurred on March 12 at Wat Sawang Ar-Rom in Baan Mi district, where 19 stateless children aged 5 to 17 were discovered during a monkhood ordination programme. After being temporarily placed under the care of the Baan Kru Naam Foundation, the children were subsequently transferred to the Chiang Rai Children and Family Shelter. Concerns arose amidst fears that they might be deported back to Myanmar, the country they had fled.
Minister Varawut clarified that the rescue operation was initiated due to suspicions of potential exploitation for fundraising purposes, voiced by social development officers in Lop Buri. Despite not being under the ministry’s direct care, there was no evidence indicating the children’s involvement in any trafficking schemes.
Nutchanart Boonkhong, the founder of the Baan Kru Naam Foundation, reassured that the children had spent their time at the Lop Buri temple without facing any abuse.
Minister Varawut asserted the ministry’s commitment to ensuring the children’s security and urged the private sector to recognize their responsibility in protecting vulnerable children.
However, Tuenjai Deetes, founder of the Hill Area and Community Development Foundation (HADF), raised concerns over the government’s approach towards stateless children in Thailand, noting their lack of security in the country.
Suraphong Kongjuntuek, an expert on minorities and children with the National Human Rights Commission, emphasized that the children’s right to education in Thailand was not illegal under the Children’s Protection Act, stressing the state’s obligation to safeguard their innocence and well-being.
