The Khmer Movement for Democracy (KMD) welcomes the repatriation of Cambodian migrant workers from Thailand. We believe that this repatriation will be conducted on voluntary basis, in accordance with the principles of human dignity, safety, security, transparency, and protection, especially for women, children, and other vulnerable groups.

The labor force of Cambodian migrant workers not only contributes to the economic growth of their host countries, but also to the economic development of Cambodia. In fact, according to a report by the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training, Cambodian migrant workers working legally abroad remitted up to USD 2.95 billion in 2024. This figure does not include many migrant workers working illegally abroad, including in Thailand. The large number of Cambodian migrant workers reflects the unemployment, lack of decent work, poverty and lack of governance in their homeland. Therefore, this repatriation could be a turning point to promote governance reforms in Cambodia to increase domestic investment, which will lead to more decent works, contributing to reducing migration to find work abroad.

We hope that the Royal Government of Cambodia will facilitate this repatriation in full cooperation with the Royal Government of Thailand and relevant institutions to ensure a smooth repatriation with respect for basic human rights. Returnees should be provided with decent work in accordance with their professional skills, as well as receive additional training and vocational orientation, physical and mental health care, shelter, food, education for dependent children and other social security support to rebuild their lives with dignity.

KMD hopes that the Royal Government of Cambodia will address this issue effectively and efficiently. KMD adheres to the principles of inclusiveness, free and active participation of all citizens in national affairs, and continues its mission for justice, dignity, and rights of all Cambodian citizens to achieve equitable development within the vision of freedom, democracy, and respect for fundamental human rights.