The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Organization for Migration (IOM) Thailand, as well as Social Lab - Migration in Media (collaboration between Mahidol University, Chulalongkorn University, and Hanyang University, the Republic of Korea, co-organized a 2^nd training workshop on migration reporting for journalists and university students, from 11 - 13 October 2024, at Novotel Siam Square, Bangkok. The training aimed to enhance understanding on migration issues, the role of Thai government agencies and international cooperation frameworks related to migration management, as well as promote the role of the media in reporting on migration. A total of 16 journalists and 50 university students participated in the training, with both in-person and online attendance. 

During the opening session, Mr. Thanawat Sirikul, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Information, welcomed the participants and underscored the contribution of migrants to Thailand’s economy and social fabric. He also stressed the crucial role of media in shaping public perceptions of migrants in Thailand and emphasized the role of the Ministry in promoting Thailand’s image through accurate, transparent and unbiased reporting. Michiko Ito, Deputy Head of Operations, IOM Thailand, highlighted that migration is an integral part of human history, yet migrants continue to face misperceptions and prejudice in society, resulting in mistreatment and social stigma. IOM recognizes the importance of promoting evidence-based public discourse to build the capacity of journalists. In addition, the study visit presents an opportunity to gain better insights into migration on the ground.

The training included a one-day workshop for each group of journalists and journalism students, as well as a one-day field visit to Samut Sakhon province. It covered a comprehensive range of issues useful for reporting on migration, including the current situation of migration in Thailand and the region, relevant terminology, misinformation and disinformation, as well as media interviewing and reporting techniques.

The training is part of a joint two-year project on “Promoting Evidence-based Migration Discourse and Media Reporting” by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and IOM .