Strengthening the relationship between Thai and Burmese factory workers is central to the work of the Rangsit and Area Labour Union Group (RLUG). And they use a range of interactive events to encourage this – from sports days, picnics and language classes which have proved to be successful in building relationships (see the team building game using handfuls of flour in the activity below).
Although migrant workers are initially reluctant to join the union because it might put their jobs at risk, the RLUG still makes sure they are included in any wins for the Thai workers. Bonus payments and other benefits originally paid only to the Thai workers, are now extended to migrant workers. This is thanks to Deaw, the RLUG President, who met with social audit investigators to discuss the situation of migrant workers in his factory. With the support of the social audit team he also met with the migrant workers introducing them to the union and its work
