migrant workers mobility and informal social protection: the case studies of Songkhla and Trat Special Economic-Development Zone

Sopin Jirakiattikul, Thunradee Taveekan, Vinissa Ujjin, Nattapon Tantragoonsab, Natnicha Tuangvirutkorn

Abstract

The article  investigates the situation of employment and the mobility of migrant labors in Songkhla Special Economic Development Zone and Trat Special Economic Development Zone. The study aims to understand the relationship between labor mobility and informal sector protection in the above mentioned zones. Research methods include documentary research, observation and in-depth interview with government officers, business executives, non-government organization staffs, and migrant workers. The study finds that there are similarity in the circumstances of migrant workers’ mobility in both research sites, particularly the role of economic, social and cultural factors in the decision-making among migrant workers. In addition, informal social protection plays an integral part in supporting these migrant workers.