Since the military coup in Myanmar in 2001, the number of Burmese migrants workers and refugees seeking safety and job opportunities in Thailand has surged, with cities like Mae Sot and Chiang Mai—both near the Thai-Myanmar border—becoming major destinations. However, many face exploitation, with employers and government officials benefiting from their labor while neglecting their welfare. In response, Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA partnered with the MAP Foundation, a local NGO, to support the creation of MAP Radio, aiming to support Burmese migrant workers. Read below two stories of migrants who have built a community through the MAP Radio.

The economic situation in Laos has worsened since the Covid-19 pandemic driving many families closer to poverty. The unions are determined to build grassroots union capacity in the private sector for better, safer jobs.

Kuswoyo, a 48-year-old father of two, worked at an asbestos factory in Cibinong, Bogor, Indonesia, for 28 years. Each day, he would mix sacks of raw asbestos and polymers with his bare hands to create asbestos insulation thread. “We didn’t wear gloves, and we had no masks, even though a notice on the wall said to, they were not provided,” he said.

Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA strongly condemns the decision of the Israeli government to ban the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from providing critical, life-saving humanitarian assistance in Gaza and the West Bank.

Amidst the significant challenges facing organisations serving individuals with disabilities, the Ramallah Deaf Association has emerged as an inspiring success story in transforming these challenges into real opportunities.

As we approach the next election, we’re urging politicians to take action. It’s time for Down Under to step up, and we’re calling for an increase in Australia’s aid contribution to 1% of the federal budget.