Activist group submits petition opposing free education for migrant children

2026-03-17 - 09:03

BANGKOK — An activist group on Tuesday submitted a petition with more than 86,000 signatures to the Education Ministry, opposing a policy allowing children without Thai nationality or civil registration to access free education. The group, Thai Intolerance Team, led by activist Tae Archiwa, gathered outside the ministry at 11:00 to call for the suspension of a 2025 regulation permitting the enrolment of students lacking official documentation. Tae said the policy should prioritise Thai students over migrant children, arguing that some Thai children still lack access to free education. He questioned the use of more than 800 million baht in taxpayer funds to support non-Thai students, saying authorities should first ensure adequate opportunities for Thai children. He also raised concerns about potential misuse of the policy, claiming it could pose security risks if individuals falsely claim eligibility to remain in the country. A ministry representative received the petition and said it would be considered. Tae said the group would escalate the matter to the Prime Minister’s Office if there is no progress, urging the government to urgently revoke the policy.