Migration in Southeast Asia: IMISCOE Regional Reader

This open-access IMISCOE Regional Reader examines the issues faced by migrant groups in Southeast Asia and the challenges of getting their human rights recognized. It analyzes the different responses of the ASEAN to these complex situations, focusing on lesser-known populations and issues such as the Vietnamese in Thailand, PIDs in the Southern Philippines, independent child migrants, and the vulnerabilities of migrant workers facing the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a valuable resource for those studying human rights and migration issues, policy makers, researchers, and students.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 22 March 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This open-access IMISCOE Regional Reader delves into the complex challenges faced by migrant groups in Southeast Asia and the arduous journey to secure their human rights recognition. It conducts a comprehensive analysis of the varied responses, or lack thereof, of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to these intricate situations, shaped by contemporary debates surrounding borders, statehood, migrant rights, citizenship access, and the interconnectedness of these concepts with issues such as migrant agency and resilience. Special emphasis is placed on the less-known populations and issues within the region, including the Vietnamese in Thailand, people of Indonesian descent (PIDs) in the Southern Philippines, independent child migrants across the region, and the vulnerabilities of migrant workers grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. By offering a regional perspective, this book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, researchers, and students interested in human rights and migration studies.

Introduction:
Migrant groups in Southeast Asia face numerous challenges, including discrimination, exploitation, and human rights violations. The region is home to a diverse population of migrants, including workers, refugees, and asylum seekers, who come from various countries and backgrounds. Securing their human rights and promoting their well-being is a critical concern for governments, international organizations, and civil society.

Issues Faced by Migrant Groups:
Migrant groups in Southeast Asia face a range of issues, including lack of access to basic rights such as healthcare, education, and employment. They are often subjected to discrimination, violence, and exploitation, particularly in the workplace. Migrant workers are particularly vulnerable to labor rights violations, such as unpaid wages, long working hours, and forced labor.

Challenges of Getting Human Rights Recognized:
Getting human rights recognized for migrant groups in Southeast Asia is a complex and challenging process. Many migrants are undocumented, making it difficult for them to access legal assistance and protection. Additionally, language barriers, cultural differences, and lack of awareness about human rights issues can further hinder their efforts.

Responses of ASEAN to Migrant Issues:
ASEAN has taken steps to address migrant issues, including the establishment of regional mechanisms to protect migrant workers and the adoption of policies to promote human rights and labor standards. However, there are still gaps in the implementation of these policies and mechanisms, and migrant groups continue to face challenges.

Lesser-Known Populations and Issues:
There are several lesser-known populations and issues within Southeast Asia that require attention. For example, the Vietnamese in Thailand face discrimination and exploitation, while the PIDs in the Southern Philippines are often marginalized and excluded from social and economic opportunities. Independent child migrants across the region are also at risk of exploitation and abuse.

Vulnerabilities of Migrant Workers:
Migrant workers are particularly vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic, as they are often employed in high-risk sectors such as healthcare and hospitality. They are also more likely to live in crowded and unsanitary conditions, which increases their risk of infection and transmission.

Conclusion:
Migrant groups in Southeast Asia face numerous challenges and barriers to securing their human rights. The region's governments, international organizations, and civil society must work together to address these issues and promote the rights and well-being of all migrants. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Weight: 541g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031257476
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023