This article discusses the circumstances of Thai nationals in Israel following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Many Thai workers, primarily in agriculture, faced challenging conditions. The response from Israel includes incentives to address labor shortages as significant numbers of Thai workers continue to migrate for better opportunities despite safety concerns. Recent reports indicate ongoing issues related to working conditions for these laborers.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacked Israel, resulting in the capture of 31 Thai nationals, with five being released on Thursday. Out of this group, 23 Thais have been freed, while two have been confirmed deceased, and one person’s status remains unknown. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported that 46 Thais have died as a result of the ongoing conflict, including those who were held by Hamas.
The significant presence of Thai workers in Israel originates from shifts in labor dynamics since the first Intifada. Initially, Israel relied on Palestinian workers, but began to import migrant laborers, particularly from Thailand, which now constitutes the largest segment of agricultural workers in the country. This influx is supported by a bilateral agreement between Thailand and Israel, implemented a decade ago to facilitate labor migration in the agricultural sector.
Working conditions for Thai laborers have been a matter of criticism. Reports from Human Rights Watch in 2015 noted that Thai workers often lived in makeshift housing, received wages below the legal minimum, and were subjected to excessive work hours and unsafe conditions. Consequently, recent assessments revealed that many workers still earn less than the legal rates established by Israeli law.
As of the recent attack by Hamas, approximately 30,000 Thai workers were employed in Israel, predominantly in agricultural roles. Following the attack, about 7,000 workers returned home due to safety concerns, while new labor incentives introduced by Israel have attracted additional workers; currently, approximately 38,000 Thai nationals are employed in the country.
In response to the labor shortages caused by the exodus of Thai workers, Israel’s Agriculture Ministry has implemented incentives to encourage foreign laborers to return to evacuated areas. This includes the extension of work visas and bonuses reaching approximately $500 per month. Furthermore, the Thai Labor Ministry has sanctioned 3,966 workers to work in Israel throughout 2024, reflecting the nation’s continued status as a leading destination for Thai expatriates seeking employment opportunities abroad.
This article outlines the complex situation faced by Thai nationals in Israel following the Hamas attack. The significant number of Thai workers in Israel is attributed to historical labor dynamics, economic incentives, and ongoing issues related to working conditions. As labor shortages emerge due to recent conflict, both countries are striving to improve the situation and attract workers back to Israel. The necessity for better working conditions remains a critical concern, underscoring the challenges within the labor migration framework. Thailand’s Labor Ministry’s proactive approach, alongside Israeli offerings of incentives, highlights the long-standing economic ties between the nations amidst ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
