Who are the Ethnic Minorities in Thailand ?

Hilltribes

Southeast Asia has many mountain-dwelling semi-nomadic peoples that are collectively known as hilltribes. These populations live throughout Myanmar (Burma), Laos , Vietnam , Thailand and China and are known as “hilltribes” because they have traditionally subsisted in the mountainous jungles of the region. Besides this shared nomadic, mountain-dwelling tradition, it is incorrect to lump these peoples under one general heading as they represent a wide array of languages, cultures, traditions, diets, dress and belief systems. Mirror Art Group's Virtual Hilltribe Museum is devoted to these tribal groups and celebrating their cultures and traditions. Please click here for more information on the different populations. This museum focuses on the six largest groups currently represented in Thailand , the Akha, Lahu, Hmong, Lisu, Karen and and the Mien (Yao).

Sea People

Sea People refers to an ethnic group who have lived for centuries as nomadic peoples among the islands of the Andaman Sea . Currently, most have settled into permanent or semi-permanent coastal homes in Thailand 's southern regions. Due to both discrimination and their nomadic lifestyle they have never been regarded as Thai people, though many of valid claims for citizenship based on Thai law.

Sea People can be subdivided into two groups:

New Thai refers to the Moklen and Urak Lawoi people (by royal Thai decree). They have established permanent settlements on the Thai mainland for almost a generation.

Moken refers to the most traditional of the sea people. The majority of Moken continue to live on islands in the Andaman Sea , primarily within the Surin Islands National Park .

Thailand 's Sea People were greatly affected by the Tsunami of 2004 and those without Thai citizenship have faced many obstacles in receiving the aid and relief that has poured into the country. Click here for more information on how the Tsunami has affected these non-citizens

Displaced Thais

Displaced Thais are ethnic Thais who were forced to become residents of Myanmar (Burma) during the colonial period because of changes in political boundaries. Due to the violent political situation in Myanmar , many of these Thais have returned to Thailand only to find that they are classified as illegal aliens despite their original Thai identities.

Thai Yai