The Innovative Model Advancing and Safeguarding the Rights of Migrant Children in Thailand Based on the Concept of Humanism

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) analyze the situation and problems of migrant children in Thailand, (2) examine the conceptual frameworks of humanistic philosophy, human rights, and child rights, and (3) develop an innovative model for promoting and protecting the rights of migrant children. This study employed a qualitative research approach by integrating documentary research with field data collection. The key informants consisted of 200 migrant novice monks at the Bodhiyalai Learning Center and 20 administrators or relevant personnel, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations, and were analyzed using content analysis.

The findings revealed that migrant children in Thailand face structural vulnerability due to the lack of legal status and civil registration documents, resulting in unequal access to fundamental rights, particularly education and social protection, despite the existence of state policies. At the same time, the integration of humanistic philosophy, human rights, and child rights provides a significant conceptual framework for guiding child protection, emphasizing human dignity, equality, and the best interests of the child. In addition, this study developed an integrated innovative model for the protection of migrant children, consisting of four key dimensions: access to education, legal identity protection, child well-being and safety, and network-based governance. The study indicates that addressing the issues of migrant children requires integrated social innovation by linking value-based frameworks with practical mechanisms at the local level. Policy recommendations emphasize reducing the dependency of fundamental rights on legal status and promoting collaborative network mechanisms among government agencies, civil society, and communities to ensure that migrant children can equitably access their rights and develop their full potential in a sustainable manner.