Thailand Approves Abu Dhabi Declaration to Enhance Protection for Overseas Workers

The Thai cabinet has approved the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration, which aims to enhance the protection of Thai workers abroad. This initiative seeks to establish a framework for international labor cooperation, focusing on protecting workers' rights, promoting fair employment, developing skills for the digital economy, and expanding opportunities for Thai nationals in the global labor market. The cabinet's resolution, announced by Major Pataralasm Thorne-Sroykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, includes the approval of the draft joint declaration for the 8th Abu Dhabi Dialogue Ministerial Meeting. This declaration will serve as a framework for cooperation among member states to improve the efficiency and safety of transnational labor management, aligning it with the evolving global labor market context, particularly driven by technological advancements, the transition to a digital economy, and demographic shifts. The draft declaration emphasizes the promotion of safe, orderly, and legal international labor migration, coupled with enhancing the rights and welfare of migrant workers throughout their employment cycle. This includes support from pre-departure preparations and transparent, fair recruitment to protection during employment and assistance with repatriation and reintegration into the labor market. Furthermore, the meeting highlighted the importance of developing workers' skills to meet future labor market demands, especially in digital skills, artificial intelligence (AI), and those essential for new industries. Promoting the recognition of international qualifications and vocational skills is also a key objective to increase employment opportunities, raise incomes, and boost the competitiveness of workers in the global arena. The draft declaration also supports the use of digital technology in labor management, the development of information exchange systems among member states, the reduction of recruitment costs, and the promotion of fair employment practices. It further aims to ensure that all groups of workers, including women, youth, and those in new forms of employment, receive appropriate and equitable care and protection. Major Pataralasm stated that Thailand's participation in this declaration will strengthen its role in driving regional labor cooperation. It will also help ensure that Thai workers receive protection according to international standards, have opportunities to acquire skills that match market demands, and gain access to better quality employment. This aligns with the government's policy to upgrade the potential of Thai labor and create sustainable career stability. Source: INN News