Let workers come backThe new Anutin 2 government must heed calls from the business sector to address labour shortages by allowing Cambodian workers to return. Thailand once hosted more than 1.2 million Cambodian workers at its peak. The exodus was partly driven by safety fears, amid claims that some Cambodian workers were assaulted by ultranationalist groups while Thai authorities took no action. Claims by ultranationalists that Cambodian workers are taking jobs from Thais are unfounded. It is time for the new government to take decisive action -- reverse course, allow Cambodian workers to return, and acknowledge the high cost of a hardline, military-led approach.

Source: Bangkok Post March 27, 2026 23:39 UTC