Thailand has begun issuing official identity cards to refugees from Myanmar living in temporary shelters along its border, marking a significant change in the country’s approach to one of the world’s longest-running displacement crises…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Thailand has begun issuing official identity cards to refugees living in temporary shelters along the Thai-Myanmar border, in a move described by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, as a historic step towards greater protection, inclusion and self-reliance for one of the world’s longest-running refugee populations.
The Royal Thai Government started distributing the official, non-Thai identity cards on Thursday. The documents formally recognise recipients as “Myanmar Displaced Persons” and are intended to improve their legal status while expanding access to employment and essential services.
UNHCR said the initiative represents a major milestone for around 80,000 forcibly displaced people from Myanmar living in temporary shelters along the border. Many have remained there for decades after fleeing conflict and instability in Myanmar.
“For refugees from Myanmar in Thailand, these identity cards are not simply a form of documentation – they are a gateway to protection, stability and opportunity,” said UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner for Operations Raouf Mazou. “These cards help restore dignity, open new possibilities, and enable refugees to build meaningful futures.”
The introduction of the cards follows a policy change announced by the Thai Government in August 2025 that granted longstanding refugees legal access to employment. The policy came into effect in October 2025 and marked a shift away from an approach centred on long-term encampment.
According to UNHCR, more than 5,500 refugees have entered the workforce since the policy was introduced. The agency said it hopes significantly more refugees will benefit as the programme expands, contributing to Thailand’s economy while strengthening the resilience of local communities.
The new identification system includes biometric registration and integration into Thailand’s national civil registry. Each card also carries a QR code that can be used for verification.
UNHCR said the system is designed to reduce the risks of identity fraud, trafficking and exploitation. It also enables refugees to access services that often require official identification, including banking, telecommunications and healthcare.
“This initiative empowers refugees to contribute economically and live with greater security and independence,” said Mazou. “We commend the Royal Thai Government for this progressive policy, which holds important lessons for other countries responding to protracted displacement.”
He added: “UNHCR stands ready to continue working closely with the Government to support these efforts and achieve the best possible outcome for displaced communities and the people of Thailand.”
The identity cards will be issued in phases to refugees aged over five years. The first phase will prioritise individuals who are already employed, with wider distribution planned over time.
UNHCR said the humanitarian situation in Myanmar continues to leave those living in the border shelters in need of international protection. Ongoing insecurity, humanitarian challenges, and human rights concerns have prevented the creation of conditions that would allow many refugees to return safely.
Many families have spent decades in the temporary settlements and remain dependent on humanitarian assistance. According to UNHCR, around 45 per cent of the refugee population was born in the shelters in Thailand, highlighting the prolonged nature of the displacement.
The agency said the programme aligns with its broader global objective of reducing long-term refugee dependence on humanitarian aid. UNHCR is seeking to cut by more than half the number of refugees living in prolonged displacement over the next decade by promoting opportunities for self-reliance, legal protection and economic participation.
It said Thailand’s latest initiative demonstrates a commitment to international responsibility-sharing by providing refugees with practical tools to rebuild their lives while contributing to their host communities. UNHCR said the introduction of official identity cards not only improves protection for displaced people but also supports their ability to participate more fully in society with greater dignity and security.
