On 4th March 2026, representatives from the British Asian Christian Association (BACA) and United by Faith held a strategic online meeting via Zoom with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Bangkok office. The discussion focused on assessing IOM’s current operational capacity, exploring available support pathways for Pakistani Christian asylum seekers, and identifying opportunities for strengthened future collaboration.
Attendees included:
- Hannah Chowdhry (Global Programs and Communications Manager, BACA)
- Wilson Chowdhry (Chairman, United by Faith)
- Among Pundhi Resi (IOM Program Manager for Protection and Border Governance)
- Khun Sand (IOM Voluntary Assisted Returns)
Understanding IOM’s Role in Thailand
The meeting began with an overview of IOM’s extensive mandate and long-standing presence in Thailand, where it has operated for over 20 years. As one of the largest UN-affiliated agencies in the country, IOM plays a central role in migration governance, research, and protection.
Key areas of work include:
- Migration policy development and research
- Climate-related migration challenges
- Protection and governance, including Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR)
- Collaboration with the Thai Immigration Bureau
- Addressing migrant smuggling and organised crime
IOM emphasised that its work extends beyond government engagement, incorporating community-level support and coordination.
Current Challenges: Limited Support Capacity
A major concern raised during the meeting was the impact of recent budget cuts. IOM confirmed that, at present, it does not have the financial capacity to provide direct humanitarian assistance such as:
- Food or emergency financial grants
- Medical support
- Funeral assistance
This represents a significant shift from previous years, when such support was more readily available. IOM encouraged BACA and United by Faith to refer urgent cases directly to them where possible, while also committing to notify partners if new funding becomes available.
Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR): Constraints and Possibilities
The AVR programme was discussed in detail, particularly in relation to Pakistani Christian asylum seekers in Thailand.
Key takeaways include:
- AVR support is currently extremely limited due to funding shortages
- IOM Thailand cannot fund return flights or reintegration packages at this time
- Assistance is assessed on a case-by-case basis, with no guarantees
- In some instances, IOM Pakistan may have available funding to support returnees
Importantly, individuals must typically withdraw from UNHCR processes before AVR support can be considered. IOM also highlighted that safeguarding and risk assessments remain part of the process, particularly for vulnerable religious minorities.
Practical Barriers for Asylum Seekers
The discussion highlighted several critical barriers faced by Pakistani Christian asylum seekers attempting to access return or protection pathways:
- Lack of valid passports, requiring engagement with the Pakistani Embassy
- Financial instability, limiting the ability to fund travel
- Complex immigration status assessments
- The requirement to enter Immigration Detention Centres (IDC) during parts of the process
Even where individuals can fund their own return, IOM’s role is largely advisory—helping coordinate logistics, liaising with embassies, and connecting with IOM Pakistan for reception and reintegration support.
Processing times can take approximately 2–3 weeks if all documentation is in place, though delays are common where documents are missing.
Coordination with UNHCR and Thai Authorities
Strengthening coordination with protection stakeholders was identified as a key priority. IOM agreed to:
- Share updated contact details for the new UNHCR Special Protection Officer in Thailand
- Facilitate improved communication channels with Thai government bodies, including the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Support the sharing of country reports and human rights updates
This collaboration is essential to ensure that asylum seekers receive consistent and informed support across agencies.
Looking Ahead: Building a Collaborative Framework
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to closer collaboration. Proposed next steps include:
- Establishing regular coordination meetings
- Creating structured communication channels for case referrals and updates
- Enhancing data sharing and escalation processes
IOM also provided insights into Thailand’s evolving asylum framework. While new systems now allow some individuals to remain and work legally, the process remains complex and often involves periods of detention. Notably, deportation is not funded by the Thai government, placing additional pressure on NGOs and individuals to cover costs.
Conclusion
This meeting underscored both the challenges and opportunities in supporting Pakistani Christian asylum seekers in Thailand. While financial constraints currently limit IOM’s direct assistance, their willingness to collaborate and provide coordination support remains invaluable.
For BACA and United by Faith, the discussion reaffirmed the importance of partnership-driven approaches—leveraging collective resources, sharing information, and advocating for those who remain at risk.
Through continued engagement and cooperation, there is hope that more effective and compassionate solutions can be developed for vulnerable communities in need.
