HRCM: Majority of migrant complaints over unpaid salaries

Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) reports it has received 26 complaints regarding human rights violations against migrant workers so far this year.

HRCM expressed concern over human rights violations against migrant workers taking place in Maldives, calling out for all relevant authorities to increase the efficiency of its work to prevent such violations.

The commission reported the majority of complaints from migrant workers this year were over unpaid salaries.

HRCM received complaints over seven cases of unpaid salaries, three cases of unlawful detention, three cases of harassment in the workplace, two cases of unsafe work environment, three cases of termination without prior notice, two cases of deportation, one case of withholding passports and other personal documents, once case of lack of translator to assist a migrant during trial and delay in trial.

Seven more complaints were filed over other human rights violations against migrant workers.

HRCM said that statistics show a drop in number of complaints by migrant workers in 2012, 2014 and 2016 compared to the high number of complaints filed in 2011 and 2013.

In its statement on occasion of International Migrants Day being marked this Sunday, December 18, HRCM noted the importance of protecting the rights of migrants guaranteed by

Maldivian Constitution and laws. And prosecution of human rights violators and strict sentences for human rights violators – especially those involved in human trafficking.