On 4 June 2013, Mr. Manasvi Srisodapol, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spoke to the press on the Rohingyas’ living conditions in Thailand, gist as follows:

Thai authorities are aware of the crowdedness issue at the immigration facilities where Rohingyas are held. Alternative arrangements are being identified as a matter of priority. In January, the various groups of Rohingyas were placed under the care of various immigration detention centres and government shelters across Thailand, with the majority being in the Southern provinces. These arrangements would help address the crowdedness issue and allow detainees to be united with their family members where possible. Meanwhile, an extra budget has been approved by the Thai Cabinet to provide temporary assistance on basic needs. The Thai Government is also working with humanitarian agencies such as the UNHCR, IOM, UNICEF and ICRC in this regard. 

The situation at the Phang Nga detention centre is not necessarily representative of all the centres.  Where applicable, regular exercise, including outdoors, are encouraged. Activities, including basic skills training, Quran teaching and facilitation of religious observances, are arranged in the government shelters and detention centres.

The Thai authorities provide regular medical check-ups for all the groups equally despite the limited resources. The Thai authorities also work with the IOM’s medical team to provide basic healthcare and medical supplies, including mosquito nets and polio drops for children.

A team of UNHCR Rohingya interpreters continues to make regular visits to all the detention centres and government shelters. The Thai Government will continue to advocate for more assistance in this regard.    

The Thai authorities are doing their utmost to assist those in need, but there is only so much that one country can do in addressing this complex regional issue. It is hoped that others will continue to do their part in this regard. A durable solution would be the development of the Rohingyas’ areas of origin so that they may enjoy opportunities for prosperity without having to risk their lives on a treacherous sea voyage in hopes of making a better life abroad.