Basic language skills are proving to be a critical lifeline for migrant workers in Thailand, offering them greater confidence, independence and access to essential services such as healthcare and labour protections. A new series of Thai language classes is helping workers overcome daily communication challenges, from speaking with supervisors to navigating medical appointments.
Migrant workers—many from Myanmar—form a vital part of Thailand’s labour force, especially in seafood processing and market supply chains. Yet many arrive with little or no Thai language ability, leaving them reliant on others for basic interactions and limiting their ability to understand their rights, manage workplace issues, or access public services.
To address these challenges, the ILO Migrant Advocacy for Rights (MARs) project, in partnership with HomeNet Thailand, has launched practical Thai language training sessions at a local temple, providing a familiar and accessible community setting. The classes aim to build essential communication skills while fostering inclusion and opportunity.
“Language is a foundational skill for migrant workers. When workers can communicate, they not only perform their jobs more effectively and safely, but they can also participate more fully in their communities,” said Rebecca Napier-Moore, Technical Officer of the MARs project. “This training is a simple yet powerful way to strengthen protection and inclusion.”
Participants say the lessons have significantly reduced stress and improved both workplace communication and daily life. Naing Ko Lin, who works in a seafood factory cutting and packing cuttlefish, described the difficulties of arriving in a new country without language ability: “When I was a newcomer, I could not speak or understand Thai. It was quite challenging. Things are easier when we understand Thai.”
For others, the training has provided independence in accessing services. “Knowing Thai would be useful when I go to see a doctor. I do not need to hire someone to translate,” said Ni Lar Cho. Many also report increased confidence and reduced workplace anxiety after learning to read Thai alphabets and vowels.
The initiative has already reached 60 migrant workers in Samut Songkhram province, many in seafood processing factories or local market roles. Beyond language learning, the classes serve as a platform for sharing information on labour rights, social protection and community support networks.
The MARs project plans to expand similar community-based initiatives to ensure migrant workers are equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to access services, exercise their rights and actively participate in community life.
By investing in language skills, migrant workers are gaining more than just vocabulary—they are opening doors to dignity, opportunity and stronger integration.
