Utilizing Biometric Technologies to Identify Non-Thai Migrant Workers: The Integration of Iris and Facial Recognition for Disease Surveillance and Control
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14456/dcj.2026.20Keywords:
migrant workers, personal identification, biometric technology, iris and facial recognition, public health systemAbstract
Inaccurate identification of migrant workers represents a structural barrier to Thailand’s disease surveillance and control systems. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly exposed these limitations in contact tracing and patient follow-up. This study aimed to analyze the evolution and lessons learned from implementing the Thai Red Cross Biometric Authentication System (TRCBAS), which utilizes iris and facial recognition technology for undocumented migrants. A qualitative study was conducted across five pilot provinces. Data was gathered from 49 key informants, including executives, data users, and operators, through focus group discussions and participant observation from February 2023 to May 2024. Thematic analysis was employed to synthesize findings. Results: The system’s development progressed through three distinct phases, successfully registering 139,184 individuals across 100 health facilities by early 2025. Key success factors included high technical precision in iris recognition (>99%), strong policy-level commitment, and system user-friendliness. Nevertheless, critical challenges persist, such as the lack of integration with Hospital Information Systems (HIS), fragmented identification numbers, and unstable internet connectivity in remote border regions. Biometric technology effectively bridges gaps in health security for mobile populations. Crucial policy recommendations include: (1) establishing a centralized "Health ID" to unify health data across sectors; (2) investing in digital infrastructure within border areas; and (3) implementing robust data governance and ethical framework aligned with international human rights standards to ensure long-term national sustainability.
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