Online Roundtable to Explore Church Mission Through Vietnamese Migrant Experiences

The Asian Research Center for Religion and Social Communication at St. John’s University, Thailand, in collaboration with the Priests of the Sacred Heart, U.S. Province, is organizing an online roundtable discussion titled “Vietnamese Migrants' Experience in the Context of the Mission of the Church” on September 5.

The roundtable will bring together scholars to reflect on the Vietnamese Catholic diaspora from both missiological and ecclesiological perspectives.

“Together, we will explore how the lived experiences of Vietnamese migrants provide fresh insights into the mission of the Church, showing that migration is not only a challenge but also a vital way through which the Church continues to grow, renew itself, and carry out its mission in the world,” said Fr. Anthony Le Duc, SVD, one of the organizers.

Scholars, students, clergy, and the public are welcome to attend. The event is free and does not require prior registration.

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89202435594

The history of Vietnamese migration to Thailand spans centuries. Some migrants arrived in search of economic opportunities, while others fled religious persecution and political unrest. Today, Vietnamese migrants in Thailand include both refugees and job seekers, many of whom face challenges related to legal status and access to services.

According to a report by SEA Junction, Thailand's ageing population and economic growth have attracted Vietnamese workers, particularly in sectors such as fisheries, although some still prefer working on Vietnamese fishing boats.

Human Rights Watch reports that some Vietnamese migrants in Thailand, especially those with activist backgrounds, have faced extradition requests from the Vietnamese government, raising serious concerns about their safety and human rights.