Thailand has begun issuing ID cards to registered Myanmar refugees, saying the documents are intended for identity verification and access to services, not as a route to Thai citizenship.
BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) has launched the issuance of identification cards for persons fleeing armed conflict from Myanmar who have been granted special permission to remain in Thailand, describing the measure as a tool for identity verification and population management rather than a pathway to Thai nationality. Director-General Narucha Kosacivilize presided over the launch ceremony in Ratchaburi province, which was attended by provincial officials, district chiefs, representatives of relevant agencies, and Tammy Sharp, representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Thailand. Thailand has provided humanitarian assistance to people fleeing conflict from Myanmar along the border since 1984 and has allowed them to remain temporarily in the Kingdom on humanitarian grounds.
Under new departmental regulations, identification cards will be issued to registered individuals whose information has been verified. The cards may be used when dealing with government agencies, accessing public services, and in conjunction with official permits issued by authorities.
Narucha said the cards are solely for registration and population management and do not grant Thai nationality or confer any rights as Thai citizens. Following the ceremony, the delegation visited the Ban Tham Hin Temporary Shelter in Suan Phueng district to inspect identification card services and tour residential and educational facilities within the shelter. (NNT)
