In Thailand, Rohingya refugee children are caught in limbo along the borders. They may not speak the language and are separated from their families. For decades, this 2,400-kilometre border with Thailand has been a crossing crossing point for people seeking a better life. Since the 1970’s, the Rohingya refugees from Myanmar are a persecuted ethnic, religious, and linguistic minority and have been fleeing armed attacks and severe human rights violations. However, support has been given and its clear that art therapy benefits refugee children.
Art therapy is being used with displaced children to help them express feelings that would be difficult to express. Kate Taenghom, a psychologist for IOM says, that “Art can make them feel positive, and it can also be used as a tool for us to identify red flags.” Art supplies like watercolours, brushes, pencils, charcoals, cardboard boxes, buttons, and stickers are provided during the therapy. These tools allow the children to release their emotions using the materials of their choice. One boy expresses himself in his art about missing his parents that he has not seen in 2 years.
Art therapy provides hope and connection for this young group of refuges. Read more about this story by Mallika Panorat, Information and Communication Assistant for Asia and the Pacific, EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations. URL Thailand: art therapy as a lifeline for Rohingya refugee children caught in limbo – European Commission (europa.eu)
Publication date: 18/06/2024