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For the more than 108,000 refugees living in camps along the Thailand–Myanmar border, the current situation is critical. Current funding shortfalls have forced The Border Consortium (TBC) to reduce food rations for most camp residents to levels well below international standards. We are not alone in facing these challenges. Across the humanitarian sector, global funding has become increasingly unpredictable, putting essential services under severe strain. In this crisis we must think differently and consider new approaches as we seek viable solutions together. It is imperative that refugees can become self-reliant within Thailand. The communities themselves tell us that this is what they want. Refugees are motivated to be self-sufficient and are well-skilled to do so.
Rather than continuing to rely on an increasingly fragile humanitarian system, refugees must be given the opportunity to support themselves and shape their own futures. The Royal Thai Government has provided consistent support and protection to displaced people from Myanmar for decades. By allowing refugees to work legally, they can provide for their families and reduce dependence on shrinking humanitarian aid. For over four decades, refugees have demonstrated remarkable resilience, capacity, and commitment to their communities. They now deserve the opportunity to build dignified and sustainable lives beyond the confines of the camps.
Inside Myanmar, the situation is equally urgent. Today, more than 3.5 million people are internally displaced across the country, including over 1.1 million in southeastern Myanmar alone, an unprecedented scale of displacement. Yet current funding for humanitarian assistance remains drastically insufficient. Tens of thousands have already fled across the border into Thailand, and without sustained support, these numbers may grow. Facilitating self-reliance for refugees in Thailand would reduce dependence on humanitarian aid and enable greater support for urgent needs within Myanmar.
On World Refugee Day 2025, The Border Consortium calls on the Royal Thai Government and the international community to increase support and opportunity for displaced people in Thailand and Myanmar. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, international solidarity must not falter. Now, more than ever, displaced communities need sustained protection and meaningful self-determination to shape their own futures.
If you would like to support TBC’s work with displaced communities in Myanmar and Thailand, please visit: www.theborderconsortium.org