Journey Of Voices

To commemorate International Migrants Day (18 December 2016), the United Nations, UNESCAP, World Vision and the International Labor Organization, supported a solo exhibition at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), a contemporary art museum in Bangkok, Thailand.

The exhibition highlighted migrant workers’ experiences living and working in Thailand’s fishing communities through an immersive, interactive art exhibition including the installation of a life-size sculptural fishing boat and a 16 channel video installation, as well as other sculptural works by the artist.

The video works were shot across Thailand, talking with thousands of migrants about their experiences in the shrimp and seafood processing areas in Thailand, calling public attention to both adult and child labour violations and child migrant worker rights.

The exhibition was supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO), International Organization for Migration, The United Nations, The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, United Nations Action for Cooperation against Trafficking in Persons, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Australian Aid.

Although numerous studies confirm that migrant workers contribute significantly to the Thai economy and society, host countries often have negative perceptions and attitudes towards migrant workers.

A 2011 study on public attitudes to migrant workers by the ILO, found that only 4 out of 10 respondents believed that migrant workers make a net contribution to the economy, and 85 per cent agreed that unauthorized migrants cannot expect to have any rights at work.

“The Saphan Siang campaign believes that when attitudes are informed and positive, so are actions. This exhibition is an opportunity to inform attitudes of the Thai public,” says Aanas Ali, the Saphan Siang Youth Ambassador Coordinator.

A report by World Vision’s End Trafficking in Persons Programme found that most Thais surveyed have regular encounters with migrant workers. Of those who have witnessed child or young migrants working in dangerous conditions for a local employer, only 10 per cent had reported it or spoken to someone who might assist.

“Protecting migrant workers and ensuring they are treated with the dignity they deserve is a reflection of a strong, compassionate society,” says John Whan Yoon, World Vision’s End Trafficking In Persons Regional Programme Manager.

- The United Nations