Save the Children Thailand celebrates the Royal Thai Government’s decision to provide those displaced by conflict the right to work. This gives displaced persons the chance to earn a living, provide for their families, and live with dignity. It also reduces long-term dependency on aid and helps build stronger, more resilient communities. This is a positive step forward that deserves our collective support.

This decision will now need to be supported by a clear and inclusive plan that also considers the needs and benefits of children, as they will also be impacted by this change. The risks are real and pressing, especially for children and families — who make up 40% of the displaced population. Children and youth are continuing their education during this transition. Without proper safeguards, children may be left alone when parents work, pushed into unsafe labor, or forced to drop out of school. Schools themselves may lose teachers, creating disruptions that will affect education for years to come. Providing clear information about registration, access to services and work rights will help prevent confusion and potential exploitation.

Save the Children Thailand stands ready to support the Royal Thai Government in developing a transparent, well-designed transition plan that brings together displaced communities, humanitarian actors, and all stakeholders. Such a plan must protect not only the right to work but also the right to education, family unity, and child protection. With collective effort, this transition can become more than a policy shift — it can be a safe, sustainable, and inclusive pathway that benefits everyone.