Ethical Negotiation: Analyzing Thailand’s Responses  toward Myanmar Displaced Persons in Thailand

Andrew Wai Phyo Kyaw

Authors

Andrew Wai Phyo Kyaw Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand

Keywords:

Ethical negotiation, Humanitarian assistance, National security, Myanmar displaced persons

Abstract

Understanding the historical context of migration flows to Thailand underscores the complexities of refugee issues and the challenge of balancing humanitarian obligations with national security. Although Thailand is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol, collectively referred to as the international refugee law (IRL), it has nonetheless served as a host country in Southeast Asia for internationally displaced people forced to leave their homes. Drawing on Boswell’s (2005) scholarship on Ethical Negotiation, this study examines how Thailand navigates competing priorities, protecting vulnerable populations while safeguarding national interests. The research employs qualitative methods rooted in document analysis of legal frameworks, policy documents, and academic literature, applying Boswell's Ethical Negotiation framework as an analytical lens to assess Thailand's refugee management practices. Findings reveal that Thailand manages Myanmar displaced persons through ethical negotiation, balancing humanitarian assistance with national security priorities, sovereignty concerns, and regional diplomacy. At the same time, Thailand must contend with tensions between ad hoc practices and international legal standards.

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