Rights and approaches to facilitating the acquisition of legal status for children affected by migration

Migration or the movement of people from one place to another may be caused by conflicts, natural disasters, economic factors and the prospect of a better life through better access to education and employment, among others. 

Many countries have signed on in agreement with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that the freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each state is a fundamental human right. However, freedom of movement between countries is restricted in a variety of ways by governments according to their immigration and security law . This requires individuals to have an identity document from their country of origin and permission to enter from the destination country.

This publication outlines the situation of children accompanying refugees, migrant workers and other groups facing problems with legal status in Thailand. It summarizes key information about facilitating the acquisition of legal status, civil rights, laws and policies relevant for government officials, civil society organizations, refugees, migrant workers and other groups.