The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the European Union and Sweden, has recently announced the launch of a $12 million program aimed at safeguarding migrant workers in Asia. The program, known as the Migration, Business and Human Rights (MBHR) program, seeks to combat exploitation, improve working conditions, and address unethical practices faced by migrant workers in the region.
With over a decade of experience working with the private sector to protect migrant employees, the MBHR program focuses on promoting the rights of migrant workers in supply chains across key destinations such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. The region currently hosts approximately 85.6 million migrant workers, according to the IOM.
Amy Pope, the Director General of the IOM, emphasized the importance of migrants having full access to their rights, stating, “When migrants fully access their rights, they can truly unlock their potential and harness the full power of labor migration.” Pope further highlighted the significance of collaboration with the private sector in upholding human rights, conducting business responsibly, and expanding regular migration pathways that prioritize the safety and well-being of workers.
The urgency of the program is underscored by the 2022 Global Estimates of Modern Slavery Report, which reveals that Asia and the Pacific region are home to more than half of the estimated 28 million victims of forced labor worldwide. Furthermore, the report indicates that approximately 86 percent of forced labor cases occur in the private sector, with migrant workers being three times more likely to be exploited compared to local workers. These alarming statistics highlight the critical need for initiatives like the MBHR program to protect vulnerable migrant workers.
The IOM identifies several factors that contribute to the vulnerability of migrant workers, including uneven governance, limited labor migration pathways, and unethical recruitment and employment practices. To address these challenges effectively, the IOM emphasizes the shared responsibility of safeguarding migrant workers’ rights and collaborates with governments, businesses, and civil society organizations.
David Daly, the European Union Ambassador to Thailand, emphasizes the role of the private sector in shaping the realities of migrant workers’ journeys and influencing policy outcomes. He states, “Business isn’t just about profits. It’s about people.” Daly believes that strengthening private sector engagement not only demonstrates a commitment to human rights due diligence legislation but also leads to concrete actions aimed at creating dignified and decent employment opportunities for migrant workers.
Over the years, the IOM has worked alongside its partners to support more than 600,000 migrant workers in Asia. Their efforts have focused on promoting fair recruitment, responsible employment practices, and establishing mechanisms to address workplace issues when they arise.
The launch of the MBHR program marks a significant step towards protecting the rights and well-being of migrant workers in Asia. By collaborating with various stakeholders, the IOM aims to create a safer and more equitable environment for migrant workers, ensuring that they can fully realize their potential and contribute to the economies of their host countries.
Source: The Manila Times
