Migration into Thailand: Change and Continuity from a Gender Perspective

Abstract

This chapter investigates the diverse migratory flows into Thailand since the pre-modern period while tracking shifting gendered patterns of migration. The flows have mainly originated from four parts of the world: from Europe; from West and South Asia; from Southeast Asia; and from East Asia. The chapter is divided into four parts. After the introduction, various migratory flows are investigated followed by a review of the occupations engaged in by migrants and a conclusion. Migration into Thailand can be divided into three phases according to the state's approach towards immigration. The first phase, prior to 1910, embodied a receptive and encouraging approach. The second phase began in 1910 when a strong Thai nationalistic policy was instituted, resulting in a control-oriented approach to immigration. The third phase started in the mid-twentieth century, when a migration management approach was adopted. Keywords:China; gender; migration; Thailand