Thailand

Background

• From a socio-economic, environmental and urbanization perspective, Thailand is a nation that is characterised by disparities in welfare, environmental degradation and the effects of urbanisation.
• The number of children engaged in prostitution is estimated to be between 60,000 and 200,000.
• This concern is further manifested by recent reports that HIV/ AIDS is on the rise. Some estimate that new infections might be as high as two million people.

• Thailand is host to approximately 150,000 refugees from Burma.

What We Do

The refugee situation in Thailand is unique as the country is not a signing member to the United Nations Refugee Convention. As a result, camps are controlled by the Thai government that imposes tight restriction on refugees leaving camps and seeking employment. Living in the camps has been extremely difficult for the population, due to lack of opportunity to apply or improve their skills. Rather than choosing to become the victims of their restricted circumstances, children, youth and adults engage in sport and play activities in Tham Hin, Ban Don Yang, Nu Po and Umpiem Mai Refugee Camps, where Right To Play provides skill-building opportunities for psycho-social development.

So Far

We have trained more than 570 youth and adults as Master Trainers, Trainers, PE Teachers Coaches. This has allowed the participation of approximately 13,000 children and youth in weekly PE activities. We have regular meetings with representatives from the Ministry of the Interior, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Camp Committees, Community Based Organizations, and and partner international non-governmental organisations.