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 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: Paperback / softback
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. Despite their contributions to the economies and societies of Southeast Asia, many migrant groups face systemic barriers to accessing their rights and receiving the protection they deserve.

The Challenges of Getting Human Rights Recognized:
One of the primary challenges faced by migrant groups in Southeast Asia is the lack of legal recognition and protection. Many migrants are undocumented, which makes it difficult for them to access basic services such as healthcare, education, and social assistance. Moreover, migrants who are documented may still face discrimination and exploitation, as their legal status can be used as a tool to exploit them.

The Responses of ASEAN:
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has taken steps to address the challenges faced by migrant groups in the region. However, the responses have been mixed and have not always been effective. ASEAN has established mechanisms to promote human rights and protect migrant workers, such as the ASEAN Declaration on Human Rights and Migrant Workers and the ASEAN Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers.

The Role of Civil Society:
Civil society organizations have played a crucial role in advocating for the rights of migrant groups in Southeast Asia. These organizations provide legal assistance, social support, and human rights education to migrants, helping them to navigate the complex legal and social systems in the region.

Lesser-Known Populations:
Despite the attention paid to the challenges faced by migrant workers and refugees in Southeast Asia, there are many other lesser-known populations that also face human rights violations. These include the Vietnamese in Thailand, the PIDs in the Southern Philippines, and independent child migrants across the region. These populations often face unique challenges and vulnerabilities, and their rights must be protected and promoted.

Conclusion:
Migrant groups in Southeast Asia continue to face numerous challenges, including discrimination, exploitation, and human rights violations. The responses of ASEAN and civil society organizations have been mixed, and more needs to be done to promote the rights and protect the well-being of all migrant groups in the region. It is essential to recognize the contributions of migrant groups to the economies and societies of Southeast Asia and to work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031257506
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023