Thai Cabinet Moves to Expedite Resolution of Statelessness Issue, Not Granting Citizenship to Foreigners.

Bangkok: The Ministry of Interior has announced a Cabinet resolution aimed at accelerating the resolution of the issue of Thais without registration status, emphasizing that this does not equate to granting citizenship to foreigners. The spokesperson for the Ministry highlighted that the legal process remains essential for all 480,000 cases, which can be revoked if qualifications are not met. According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Traisuree Traisaranakul, Secretary to the Minister of Interior and Spokesperson of the Ministry, clarified that the Cabinet's decision on October 29, 2024, introduced criteria to expedite nationality and status resolutions for long-term immigrants and children born in Thailand. Despite societal criticism and misunderstandings, the Cabinet's resolution aims to streamline processes while adhering to existing regulations and laws. Currently, affected individuals have begun applying for permanent residence and citizenship. Ms. Traisaranakul emphasized that the Ministry of Interior, follow ing the National Security Council's criteria, retains the right to revoke Thai nationality if an individual's behavior or qualifications pose societal threats or contravene legal standards. This measure aligns with international human rights principles and the government's policy to foster equality among citizens. The resolution addresses 340,000 immigrants from before 1999 and 140,000 Thai-born individuals who lack registration status due to historical legal conditions, clarifying that it is not about granting citizenship to foreigners. The Department of Provincial Administration has identified approximately 480,000 stateless individuals, including minorities and ethnic groups residing in Thailand for over 20 years. This includes 124,000 highland community members, 215,000 individuals omitted from past surveys, 29,000 children of minority groups born in Thailand, and 113,000 children from unregistered backgrounds.