Former military and police defectors from Myanmar are finding hope and new skills at a vocational training program near the Thailand-Myanmar border. Led by People’s Goal, an advocacy group for defectors, the program provides training in mobile phone and bike repairs to help individuals transition to civilian life. Many of these defectors faced discrimination and trauma in Myanmar and are now seeking safety and a fresh start in Thailand.
One participant, Ko Aye, a transgender man, defected after the military coup in 2021 and now dreams of returning to Myanmar one day to repair phones. Another defector, Naung Yoe, a former army major and director of People’s Goal, highlights the challenges faced by defectors in finding work and legal residency in Thailand while offering them support and education on democracy and human rights.
The training program also serves as a beacon for soldiers contemplating defection, providing them with skills and hope for a better future. With thousands of military personnel defecting since the coup, the program aims to support these individuals who have witnessed the brutality of the conflict in Myanmar.
Although some defectors may have been involved in war crimes, People’s Goal focuses on providing opportunities for a peaceful transition and supports those who seek justice for past atrocities. As Myanmar continues to grapple with civil war and human rights abuses, these defectors are learning new skills and building a community of support to forge a path towards a brighter tomorrow.
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