The International Rescue Committee said it is assisting Myanmar refugees and migrant workers in Thailand who are affected by what has been described as the worst flooding to hit Thailand in 50 years.
Heavy rains in Thailand over the past three months have caused massive floods that threaten several major cities, including Bangkok, and the northern part of the country, where thousands of refugees from Myanmar live in camps.
The refugees, who are among the poorest people in Thailand, are experiencing difficulties securing aid because many of them have lost their documents to prove their legal status, IRC said.
“Our priority right now is to make sure the Burmese are provided with food and water and to help them move to government centers that offer sanitary living conditions,” said Christine Petrie, IRC’s deputy program director in Thailand, adding that her organization is also working to pressure the Thai government to provide food, shelter and other basic services to flood-stranded refugees and migrants.
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