Finland Issues Few Work Permits to Thai Berry Pickers Amid Trafficking Concerns

Finland's issuance of work permits for Thai berry pickers this summer has drastically decreased, with only 123 individuals granted permission to work. This sharp reduction comes despite a substantial number of applications, highlighting a significant shift in the country's seasonal labor policy.

The Finnish embassy in Bangkok received over 2,100 applications from Thai citizens seeking seasonal work. The disparity between the number of applicants and those granted permits suggests a highly selective process or a deliberate policy change by Finnish authorities. In past years, thousands of Thai workers typically traveled to Finland for the berry-picking season.

Officials have pointed to concerns regarding human trafficking as a primary reason for the stringent permit process. This move indicates Finland's heightened focus on ensuring the welfare and legitimate employment of foreign seasonal workers, potentially aiming to prevent exploitation within the industry.