Political turmoil surrounds the minister over the uncertain future of a Cambodian student
In Surin province, Thailand, a 13-year-old Cambodian student named Phanith, born in 2012, was taken into custody on Thursday over his immigration status. The incident has sparked concern and condemnation from various Thai authorities and human rights groups.
The Social Development and Human Security Minister, Varawut Silpa-archa, has ordered the Surin Human Security Emergency Management Centre and the Department of Children and Youth's Provincial Together Possible Team to investigate the student's case. Minister Silpa-archa made these statements yesterday.
Thailand is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of Phanith, who was born and raised in Thailand. Currently, the student and his mother are under the care of the provincial Shelter for Children and Families. Until their immigration status is cleared, they will remain under the care of the Social Development and Human Security Ministry.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a statement condemning Phanith's arrest. The NHRC expressed concern that the arrest could cause "lasting psychological trauma" to the child. They also emphasized the child's right to education based on equal opportunity, stating that deporting Phanith would strip him of the rights and opportunities to education since he does not communicate in the language of Cambodia.
The NHRC referred to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which Thailand is a party, stating that the best interests of the child should always be prioritized. They also highlighted Section 22 of the Convention, which requires appropriate protection and humanitarian assistance for a child seeking refugee status or considered a refugee. Phanith is being treated according to this section.
A video of Phanith being escorted to Bua Chet Police Station, still in his school uniform, was shared by one of his teachers, Sophon Jongboriboon. The video shows Phanith changing into normal attire and crying at the police station before being transported to a checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province to await deportation to Cambodia.
An unidentified whistle-blower alleged Phanith's mother had entered Thailand illegally. However, the details surrounding the family's immigration status and the circumstances leading to Phanith's arrest are yet to be fully investigated.
The incident has garnered significant attention, with calls for the Thai authorities to reconsider Phanith's deportation and prioritize his best interests in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The investigation into Phanith's case is ongoing.
