Trumps' Border Issues and Thailand's Border Challenges

Trumps' Border Issues and Thailand's Border Challenges

By Janpha Thadphoothon

I wrote this blog as a concerned citizen of Thailand. I am well aware that this topic is sensitive and difficult to wrap one's head around. For a long time, I have been expecting someone else—an expert or an authority—to address these issues comprehensively. I have found a few discussions, but they do not quite provide the perspective I am looking for.

It is well known that borders define a nation's sovereignty, security, and stability. Both the United States and Thailand are facing significant border-related challenges, albeit in different contexts. In my opinion, it is interesting to compare the two situations—Trump’s border policies and Thailand’s ongoing struggles with its borders.

As we know, the U.S.-Mexico border has been a contentious issue in American politics, particularly under Trump’s administration. His approach to immigration was marked by strict border control measures, the construction of physical barriers, and an emphasis on national security. The news has it that his administration prioritized border security as a means to prevent illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and human smuggling.

I have never been to the U.S. or Mexico, but I have visited some of Thailand's neighboring countries. The civil war in Myanmar has brought immense suffering to its people. Interestingly, Myanmar's national anthem emphasizes that their land must never be given away or divided. Since gaining independence after World War II, the Myanmar government has struggled with the challenge of unifying the country.

On the other hand, Thailand is in trouble dealing with issues across its borders, particularly with neighboring Myanmar. What we all know and agree upon is that the rise of scam operations based in Myanmar and other neighboring countries has been alarming. These transnational criminal networks exploit Thailand’s porous borders, causing significant economic and social harm. I must admit that this issue is far more complex than it seems, involving corruption, weak law enforcement, and geopolitical tensions.

One of the most troubling developments is the rise of call center scams operating from across the borders, especially in Myanmar and Cambodia. These criminal syndicates have preyed upon countless Thai citizens, tricking them into financial ruin. I am sure you would agree with me that this is a national crisis that demands urgent action. Many young Thais have been lured into these scam operations, forced into modern-day slavery, or even trafficked under false promises of lucrative employment.

Furthermore, Thailand is currently sheltering almost a million displaced persons from Myanmar’s minority states. While this humanitarian effort is commendable, it also presents significant challenges in terms of border security, resource allocation, and social integration. The longer this crisis persists, the more Thailand must find sustainable solutions that balance compassion with national interests.

Additionally, the influx of Chinese tourists and China’s increasing influence in Thailand raise concerns about sovereignty and national security. My conviction is that while economic ties with China have benefited Thailand, they also pose challenges. Some people say that Chinese businesses and investors are gradually altering the economic landscape, sometimes at the expense of local businesses and communities. I am not sure, but I have read somewhere that China’s strategic interests in Thailand, including infrastructure projects and economic corridors, may have deeper implications for the country’s long-term autonomy.

Thailand relies heavily—perhaps too much—on income from international tourists, especially from China. This dependency means that when bad things happen to Chinese tourists, Thailand is forced to address these issues promptly (sometimes, cheating and crime were committed among non-Thai citizens). Crimes such as human trafficking, drug trafficking, and illegal casinos have become pressing concerns, partly due to their connection with foreign tourists and international criminal networks. The government is often compelled to take action to protect the country's image, sometimes at the cost of long-term sustainable policies.

There are few days when we do not hear about crimes committed by foreigners in Thailand. From fraud schemes to violent crimes, these incidents erode public trust in Thailand’s ability to manage its borders effectively. My conviction is that Thailand needs stronger regulations and stricter enforcement to ensure that its open-door policy does not lead to widespread exploitation.

Experts say that border management is not merely about security—it is about governance, diplomacy, and economic strategy. In my opinion, Thailand must strengthen its border control mechanisms while ensuring that economic and political interests are balanced. I somehow think that cooperation with neighboring countries is crucial, but so is internal reform to address corruption and inefficiency in border management.

Nevertheless, it is my belief that Thailand must remain vigilant in protecting its national interests. The lessons from Trump’s border policies may offer some insights, but Thailand’s situation requires a more nuanced and locally adapted approach.

To be fair, Thailand has been working hard and earnestly to address and deal with border issues, as well as cyber and international crime challenges. It is only natural that foreign governments would seek to intervene as stakeholders—China being a prime example. This must be at the top of Thailand's national agenda. The changes and challenges of new geopolitical issues, particularly the US-China rivalry, have placed Thailand in a narrower lane to tread. My conviction is that Thailand must remain neutral in its foreign policy. Sovereignty must certainly take precedence over economic gains from exports and tourism, for example.

I know you would agree with me that Thailand’s border issues are not just about physical security—they are about the country’s future. The government must take decisive actions to ensure that its borders are not exploited by external forces.

Call me old-fashioned, but I was born and raised to take pride in Thailand's rich cultural heritage. We Thais have never been colonized, and the word "Thai" itself means "free." We are a sovereign nation and a people who cherish our independence.

I like the idea of a Thailand that is both open and secure—welcoming but not vulnerable. Unlike President Trump’s approach in the U.S., simply closing our borders is not an option. We must uphold our policy of non-alignment, but navigating this path in the modern world is far from easy.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.