HRCM calls for better watch over rights of migrant workers

Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) has appealed to authorities legally obliged to oversee protection of the rights of migrant workers in the country and look into violations of their rights to increase the efficiency of their work.

HRCM made the appeal in the press statement it issued this Sunday on occasion of International Migrants Day.

In its statement, HRCM noted that violations of rights of migrant workers had resulted in Maldives being included in level II of the Human Trafficking Watchlist released by the US State Department.

It said that complaints regarding violations of the rights of migrant workers in Maldives submitted to HRCM in this year included unpaid salaries, termination of job without prior notice, conning migrant workers into performing work other than which was originally agreed upon, withholding passports and other personal documents, harassment in the workplace, unsafe work environment, coercing migrants into working, as well as inhumane treatment.

HRCM said it also received complaints over lack of translators to assist migrant workers during trial, delays and unlawful detention.

“It is therefore vital to protect the rights of migrant workers guaranteed through the Maldivian Constitution and laws, and prosecute those who violate those rights,” said HRCM in its statement.

HRCM called out for all relevant authorities to implement the Anti-Human Trafficking Act in its whole to investigate human trafficking, prosecute violators and ensure they receive the maximum sentence.

It called out for all State institutions charged with the responsibility of watching over the rights of migrant workers, as well as NGOs and the media to increase the efficiency of their work.

HRCM appealed to the community to treat migrant workers with respect and the dignity they deserve as fellow human beings.