The Problem
Refugees in Bangkok struggle to afford rent and food while living in constant fear of arrest.
Refugees from around the world come to Thailand hoping to obtain official refugee status. Currently, there are approximately 6,000 refugees in Bangkok, with the largest groups being from Afghanistan, Cambodia, China, Pakistan, Syria, and Vietnam.
Who comes to Bangkok?
They flee to Bangkok because obtaining a 60-day tourist visa is the quickest, cheapest way to escape their home countries. The United Nations refugee agency also has a headquarters in Bangkok. If they receive official refugee status from the UN, the UN will try to help them resettle in a safe country.
Why do refugees choose Bangkok?
In Bangkok, refugees are forbidden from working, unable to speak the language, and live in constant fear of arrest. If arrested, they can be detained indefinitely.
In desperation, refugees turn to churches, but the needs far exceed what local churches can meet on their own.
What do refugees face in Bangkok?
Poverty and arrest is not the end of the story. With your help, we are creating a new future for refugees, where families live with hope and purpose.