ADDRESSING THE HUMANITARIAN CONSEQUENCES OF LABOUR MIGRATION AND TRAFFICKING - THE ROLE OF ASIA PACIFIC NATIONAL SOCIETIES
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
ADDRESSING THE HUMANITARIAN CONSEQUENCES OF LABOUR MIGRATION AND TRAFFICKING THE ROLE OF ASIA PACIFIC NATIONAL SOCIETIES
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent
Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest volunteer-based
humanitarian network, reaching 150 million people each year
through our 191 member National Societies. Together, we act
before, during and after disasters and health emergencies to
meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people. We
do so with impartiality as to nationality, race, gender, religious
beliefs, class and political opinions.
Table of contents
Guided by Strategy 2020 – our collective plan of action to tackle
the major humanitarian and development challenges of this
Acknowledgements 7
decade – we are committed to ‘saving lives and changing minds’.
Introduction 9
Our strength lies in our volunteer network, our community-
based expertise and our independence and neutrality. We Labour Migration 11
work to improve humanitarian standards, as partners in
development and in response to disasters. We persuade Asia Pacific: Labour Migration Trends and Dynamics 11
decision-makers to act at all times in the interests of
vulnerable people. The result: we enable healthy and safe Asia Pacific: Countries of Origin for Labour Migration 12
communities, reduce vulnerabilities, strengthen resilience and
foster a culture of peace around the world. Asia Pacific: Countries of Destination for Labour Migration 12
Asia Pacific: Irregular Labour Migration 13
The Pacific 14
The Benefits of Labour Migration 14
Barriers to Migrants Reaching their Aspirations 15
Humanitarian Concerns for Migrant Workers 15
Women and Migration 16
Children and Migration 18
The Role of Asia Pacific National Societies in the Context of 20
Labour Migration
The Approach of the IFRC and National Societies’ work with 20
and for Migrants
The work of Asia Pacific National Societies with and for 23
migrant workers
Asia Pacific National Societies’ Initiatives with and for Migrant 24
Workers in Countries of Origin
Reducing the risks associated with migration 24
Programming Principles: National Societies’ work with and for 26
Migrant Workers in Countries of Origin
Families Who Stay Behind 27
Asia Pacific National Societies’ Initiatives with and for Migrant 28
Workers in Countries of Destination
© International Federation of Red Cross
and Red Crescent Societies, Geneva, 2018 First Aid and Safety for Migrant Workers 30
Any part of this publication may be cited, copied,
translated into other languages or adapted to meet Access to Essential Services 32
local needs without prior permission from the
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent
Societies, provided that the source is clearly stated. P.O. Box 303 Access to essential assistance during disasters and crises 33
CH-1211 Geneva 19
Requests for commercial reproduction should be Switzerland Protection 33
directed to the IFRC Secretariat at secretariat@ifrc.org Telephone: +41 22 730 4222
Telefax: +41 22 733 0395
Follow us:
Returning Migrant Workers 34
All photos used in this study are copyright of the E-mail: secretariat@ifrc.org
IFRC unless otherwise indicated. Web site: www.ifrc.org
Humanitarian Diplomacy 36
Cover photo: Poul Henning Nielsen/Danish Red Cross IFRC Document reference
5
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
Regional and Global Humanitarian Diplomacy 36
Programming Principles: National Societies’ work with 37
and for Migrant Workers in Countries of Destination
Human Trafficking 38
Migration and Trafficking in Times of Crisis 41
Humanitarian concerns for people who have been trafficked 41
The Role of Asia Pacific National Societies in the 42
context of Trafficking
Considerations for National Society Support in the 43
Context of Trafficking
Programming Considerations for National Societies’ work 45
in the context of Trafficking
Types of Support that National Societies could consider in 45 Acknowledgements
the context of Trafficking
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red
Programming Principles: National Societies’ work in the 46 Crescent Societies (IFRC) wishes to express sincere
context of Trafficking thanks to all those who contributed to, supported and
made the production of this Guidance Note possible.
Our particular thanks to the Asia Pacific National
Societies who shared their experiences and lessons
learned in providing services for migrant workers
and people who have been trafficked. The case
studies included in this Guidance Note demonstrate
the diversity and strength of Red Cross Red Crescent
action to provide essential services in the context of
labour migration and trafficking. The case studies
capture practices from all parts of the Asia Pacific
region – from East Asia, from South Asia, from South
East Asia, and from the Pacific. Our sincere thanks
and appreciation to the Red Cross Red Crescent Asia
Pacific Migration Network (APMN) for their support
and encouragement throughout the development
and finalisation of this report, to the International
Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for their
contributions and to all who reviewed earlier drafts of
this Guidance Note. Thank you also to Rebecca Napier-
Moore for leading the research and development of
content, and to Ezekiel Simperingham and Helen
Brunt from the IFRC for coordinating the review and
finalisation of the Guidance Note. Our sincere thanks
also to the British Red Cross, for valued and generous
support and cooperation to this project and to the
work of Asia Pacific National Societies in the context
of labour migration and trafficking.
6 7
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
Introduction
There are an estimated 258 million
international migrants across the globe.1
These migrants have moved for a variety of
reasons - some have chosen to move to new
countries to be with family, for employment,
for education or quality of life, while others
have been forcibly displaced across borders
by war, violence, conflict or persecution.2
In many cases - and as reflected by the
approach of the International Red Cross and
Red Crescent Movement - many migrants
move due to “a combination of choices and
3
constraints”.
There are an estimated 88 million
international migrants in the Asia Pacific
region4 - 80 million in Asia and 8 million in the What is in a label?
Pacific. At the same time, an estimated 40% of
Purpose of the all migrants across the globe originate from
the Asia Pacific region.
Migrants who are working outside
of their country of origin may be
Guidance Note However, these statistics do not account for
referred to as migrant workers,
labour migrants, overseas
all irregular migrants - those without the
This Note provides guidance for the assistance, necessary authorisation or documents to workers, economic migrants or
protection and humanitarian diplomacy activities of enter, stay or work in a country as required other labels. The IFRC does not
Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies in the under immigration regulations. 5 These have a clear policy on which
Asia Pacific region in the context of labour migration statistics also do not account for people who term(s) to use. However, it is
and trafficking. The Note builds upon existing migrate within their own country (‘internal suggested that the term “migrant
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement migrants’).6 Recent estimates suggest that
policies, guidance and commitments relevant to there are 740 million internal migrants
workers” is preferable, consistent
migration and displacement. The Note also contains globally.7 Of the global population 258 million with the 1990 International
a collection of case studies of existing initiatives by international migrants - an estimated 150 Convention on the Protection of
Asia Pacific National Societies, demonstrating the million migrants are working outside their the Rights of All Migrant Workers
strength and diversity of National Societies’ activities country of origin. and Members of Their Families.
8
related to labour migration and trafficking.
The Note is designed to support the existing initiatives
of Asia Pacific National Societies, as well as provide
guidance for those National Societies considering 1 United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), World Migration Report, 2017.
2 An estimated 22.5 million people have been forcibly displaced across international borders: http://www.unhcr.org/afr/news/stories/2017/6/5941561f4/
new initiatives in the context of labour migration forced-displacement-worldwide-its-highest-decades.html
and trafficking. The Note will be useful to National 3 The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement uses a deliberately broad description of “migrants” as “persons who leave or flee their
habitual residence to go to new places to seek opportunities or safer and better prospects. Migration can be voluntary or involuntary, but most of the
Societies across all departments - from leadership time a combination of choices and constraints are involved. It therefore includes, among others, labour migrants, stateless migrants and migrants
to migration, disaster management, health, shelter, deemed irregular by public authorities. It also concerns refugees and people seeking asylum, notwithstanding the fact that they constitute a special
category under international law and that international refugee law sets out specific protections and entitlements for those falling within its scope.”
Restoring Family Links (RFL), welfare and beyond. IFRC Policy on Migration, 2009.
The note will also be useful for representatives IFRC (2009) Policy on Migration.
4 According to these figures, one in every three migrants in the world resides in the Asia Pacific region. As well as comprising major countries of
from governments, regional institutions, academia, destination, the Asia Pacific is also an important region of origin for migrants. In 2017, more than 40% of all migrants (106 million people) originated
from Asia.
civil society organisations and United Nations (UN) 5 Providing accurate figures for irregular migration is notoriously difficult, however, recent estimates suggest that the number of irregular migrants
agencies to deepen their understanding of the core worldwide is in the tens of millions.
6 There are currently approximately 40 million people displaced due of conflicts and violence, and approximately 24 million people displaced because
mandate and strengths of Asia Pacific Red Cross and of natural disasters each year: http://www.internal-displacement.org/global-report/grid2017/
Red Crescent National Societies in the context of 7 UNDP, Human Development Report 2009, Overcoming barriers: Human mobility and development: http://hdr.undp.org/en/content/human-
development-report-2009. The approach of the IFRC is that “migration within one country can lead to situations similar to international migration,
labour migration and trafficking. especially if the migrants are subject to discrimination”. IFRC Policy on Migration, 2009.
8 International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, adopted by the UN General
Assembly Resolution 45/158 of 18 December 1990.
8 9
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
Labour Migration
Asia Pacific: Labour Migration Trends and Dynamics
The Asia Pacific region comprises major countries of origin, transit and destination for migrant
14
workers – and in some instances, all three simultaneously.
Who is a migrant worker?
While there is no universally accepted definition of a ‘migrant worker’, a
generally accepted definition is found in the International Convention on
the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their
Families: “a person who is to be engaged, is engaged or has been engaged
in a remunerated activity in a State of which he or she is not a national”. 15
Globally, 56% of all migrant workers are men and 44% are women.9 Currently, Generally, ‘labour migration’ is defined as “cross-border movement for the
one in every five migrant workers in the world is in the Asia Pacific region.10 purposes of employment in a foreign country”. However, in accordance
There are also links between labour migration and trafficking in persons.
with the 2009 IFRC Policy on Migration, it is recognised that “migrant
Although trends vary across the Asia Pacific region, many of the people who
have been trafficked originating from South Asia are trafficked for forced workers who move within their own country may face situations similar
labour, whereas many people who have been trafficked originating from to those who cross borders, especially where the migrants are subject to
16
East Asia and the Pacific are trafficked for sexual exploitation. Working discrimination”.
with and for vulnerable migrants is one of the long-standing traditions of
the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.11 This includes
work with and for migrant workers and those migrants who have been
trafficked.
Many migrant workers in and from the Asia Pacific region move due to an aspiration for better
work, for opportunities, for improved wages, working and living conditions; while others move
Recently, a series of steps have been taken to further reinforce the work of
due to debts owed or an absence of decent work choices in their countries or regions of origin.
the IFRC and its National Societies with and for migrants at the community,
As with general migration trends, in many cases migrant workers move due to a combination
national, regional and global levels. Building on the 2009 IFRC Policy on
of choices and constraints.17
Migration and 2009 Policy on Internal Displacement,12 these steps include,
in 2015 the identification by the IFRC General Assembly of migration as
one of either (now revised to sever) strategic ‘Areas of Focus’ for IFRC
support to National Societies; the development of the IFRC Asia Pacific
Migration and Displacement Framework 2017-2022; the endorsement
by 190 National Societies of the Global IFRC Migration Strategy 2018-
2022 and the endorsement of the 2017 Movement Call for Action on the
Humanitarian Need of Vulnerable Migrants.13
9IOM, World Migration Report, 2018. 14 Countries like India and China have become countries of origin, transit and destination simultaneously: https://www.iom.int/asia-and-pacific
10ILO, ILO Global Estimates on Migrant Workers: Results and methodology, 2015. 15International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, adopted by the UN General Assembly
11IFRC, Policy on Migration, 2009. resolution 45/158 of 18 December 1990
12Movement Policy on Internal Displacement Resolution No. 5 of the 2009 Council of Delegates 16 IFRC Policy on Migration, 2009.
13 17 IFRC Policy on Migration, 2009.
2017 Council of Delegates of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, Movement Call for Action on the Humanitarian Needs of
Vulnerable Migrants, CD/17/R3
10 11
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
Asia Pacific: Countries of Origin for Asia Pacific: Irregular Labour Migration
Labour Migration
It is difficult to obtain accurate figures for the numbers of irregular migrants within or from the
Asia Pacific region, however, there is a general consensus that the number is very high.
The major countries of origin of migrant workers from the Asia
Pacific region include: Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India,
Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka,
and Vietnam.18 Between 2012 and 2014, more than 1.8 million
people departed annually from the Philippines alone. In a typical
year, more than half a million people leave Bangladesh, India,
Avoiding labelling migrants as “illegal”
Indonesia, Nepal and Pakistan each to work abroad, while over
It is important that the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
100,000 migrant workers depart from Sri Lanka, and Vietnam
each per year.19 use the terms “irregular migrant” and/or “undocumented migrant” rather
than “illegal migrant”. This is because the term “illegal” can be misleading,
Many migrant workers from the Asia Pacific region migrate to legally incorrect, and dehumanising.23
other regions, in particular the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC)
including United Arab Emirates. In 2015, 72% of documented The 2015 Red Cross Red Crescent San Marino Declaration affirmed: “We 24
migrants from the seven major Asia Pacific countries of origin
call on all everyone to stop labelling people on the move as illegal migrants”
(Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines
and Sri Lanka) went to Gulf Cooperation Countries.20
Asia Pacific: Countries of Destination A person may choose to be or become an irregular migrant for a number of reasons: formal
channels may be too costly, or simply not available, waiting may take too long or indeed a
for Labour Migration migrant may not be aware that they are in an irregular status.25 As highlighted by the UN’s
Special Representative to the Secretary General (SRSG) for International Migration:
The Asia Pacific region also includes significant countries of
destination for migrant workers, such as Australia, Brunei “It is tempting, for example, to make a binary division between regular and
Darussalam, Malaysia, the Maldives, New Zealand, the Republic irregular migrants. Yet regular migrants range from individuals on short-
of Korea, Singapore and Thailand. In some countries in the Asia term work or student visas to permanent residents of foreign countries, and
Pacific, numbers of migrant workers are high on a comparative those who acquire a new citizenship. Likewise, there is a spectrum of irregular
scale, for example in Brunei Darussalam and the Maldives more migration, from overstaying a visa to deliberate efforts to undermine border
than 25% of the population are migrants.21 controls […]There is no one single answer, just as there is not one singular
problem to solve.” 26
Labour migration in and from the Asia Pacific region is dominated
by high levels of temporary migration to work in sectors that
are relatively low-paid. Often this type of work is facilitated
by brokers and recruitment agencies. Labour migration in and
from the Asia Pacific is also often highly gendered – for example,
men working in the construction sector and women working in
the domestic sector. 22
23 Referring to migrants as “illegal” denies their innate dignity and human rights. Characterising migrants’ existence as illegitimate ignores their
18 ILO Global Estimates on Migrant Workers: Results and methodology, 2015. experiences as workers, women, men, children, families and the elderly. When dehumanising terms are accepted as the norm, people are turned into
19 UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, ‘Towards Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration in the Asia Pacific Region: Challenges targets of contempt, and even their right to life may come under threat. See: PICUM, Why Words Matter: http://picum.org/words-matter/
and Opportunities’, 2017. Available at: http://www.unescap.org/publications/towards-safe-orderly-and-regular-migration-asia-pacific-region 24 Francesco Rocca, IFRC Vice-President, during the 12th Mediterranean Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, 2015: http://www.ifrc.
20 ADB, ILO, and OECD, Labour Migration in Asia: Building effective institutions, 2016: https://www.oecd.org/migration/labor-migration-in-asia- org/en/news-and-media/press-releases/europe/italy/red-cross-red-crescent-mediterranean-platform-on-migration-calls-to-stop-labelling-people-on-
building-effective-institutions.pdf the-move-as-illegal
21 UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, ‘Towards Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration in the Asia Pacific Region: Challenges 25 In Thailand, for instance, migrant domestic workers have stated that they prefer and have successfully navigated their irregular situation. Being
and Opportunities’, 2017. Available at: http://www.unescap.org/publications/towards-safe-orderly-and-regular-migration-asia-pacific-region regular, they note, would mean a kafala-like work permit tied to their employer with little to no power to change their job if they were exploited. ILO,
22 For example, a recent survey in Chittagong, Bangladesh revealed that 70% of migrant workers used recruiters to facilitate their migration and job Protected or Put in Harm’s Way: Bans and restrictions on women’s labour migration in Southeast Asia, 2017.
placement. Hussain, A, 70% of migrant workers resorting to middlemen, Dhaka Tribune, 30 October 2017: http://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/ 26 Report of the United Nations’ Secretary General, Making migration work for all, 2017.
nation/2017/10/30/70-migrant-workers-resort-to-middlemen/
12 13
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
The Pacific
Although compared with Asia there are far fewer migrant workers in and from the Pacific,
significant dynamics in the Pacific region do exist. These are characterised in part by seasonal
worker programmes from Pacific Island States to Australia and New Zealand, and there have
been reports of exploitation within these seasonal programmes.27 Aside from seasonal worker
programmes, there are also bilateral travel arrangements in place which allow people to
live and work in neighbouring countries in the Pacific. For example the Trans-Tasman Travel
Arrangement between Australia and New Zealand allows for free movement between the two
28
countries. There are also irregular migration movements within the Pacific, of people moving
between Asian countries and Pacific Island States.29
The Benefits of Labour Migration
For many, labour migration within and from the Asia Pacific region can be an empowering process,
enabling migrants to fulfil their ambitions and aspirations, and for migrant workers to meet the Barriers to Migrants Reaching their Aspirations
financial needs of their families. Migrant workers are also often able to contribute economically,
socially and culturally to countries of destination, as well as to their family members and the
economy in their country of origin through the remittance of their earnings. One of the primary obstacles to migrants achieving their aspirations are restrictive or ineffectual
labour policies, laws and employment customs. Low-wage migrants often face dangerous
Financially, migrants, including irregular migrants, contribute to their host societies by paying working conditions, exploitative contracts and violations of their labour and other rights. In
taxes and injecting around 85% of their earnings into the local economy. The remaining 15% some cases, migrants are trapped in sponsorship-based employment schemes dependent on
is sent back to communities of origin through remittances, and in 2017 an estimated US$596 a single employer, or have to bear exorbitant recruitment costs, including the fees paid to a
billion was transferred in remittances globally, with US$450 billion going to developing countries. recruiter or agent, transport costs and visa and passport fees, which can result in bonded labour
Remittances add up to three times the total of official development assistance. and situations akin to ‘modern slavery’ (see section on ‘Human Trafficking’).
Empirical studies have established that migrants often take jobs that people in local labour forces
do not wish to fill, and thus boost economic activity. Migrants offer expertise and entrepreneurship
Humanitarian Concerns for Migrant Workers
that benefit their host societies, and migration is linked to improvements in skills and education
in countries of origin. The 2009 IFRC Policy on Migration highlights that “despite these benefits [of migration], migrants
often face suspicion, or even hostility and xenophobia”. At the end of 2017, the UN Secretary
The benefits that migration brings to host communities and to countries of origin are emphasised General clearly noted: “we must sadly acknowledge that xenophobic political narratives about
30 31
in the 2009 IFRC Policy on Migration, the Sustainable Development Goals, and in the 2017 report migration are all too widespread today.”
of the UN Secretary General on ‘Making Migration work for all’:
Beyond suspicion and xenophobia, many migrants also face and experience other humanitarian
concerns.
Migration is an engine of economic growth, innovation and sustainable
development. It allows millions of people to seek new opportunities each year,
These include:
creating and strengthening bonds between countries and societies.32
• Physical, mental and sexual abuse
• Violence
• Discrimination and exclusion
• Lost family and community support networks and links
• Language and cultural barriers
• Informal and formal barriers to accessing basic services, including education, healthcare,
livelihoods, psychosocial support, legal and protection (including child protection) services
27 The Guardian, Hungry poor exploited: Alarm over Australia’s import of farm workers, The Guardian, 3 August 2017: https://www.theguardian.com/global- • The fear and reality of arrest, detention for indeterminate periods (and the detention of
development/2017/aug/03/hungry-poor-exploited-alarm-over-australias-import-of-farmworkers children, including unaccompanied or separated children), and deportation
28 In 2013 there were 582,761 New Zealanders in Australia, however this may include people who were visiting Australia and not necessarily living and
working: https://esa.un.org/miggmgprofiles/indicators/files/NewZealand.pdf • Going missing, in transit or in destination countries
29 In one case this has resulted in tightening of immigration legislation, and the deportation of migrant workers. Asia Pacific Report, Vanuatu to deport
illegal workers in labour market crackdown, Asia Pacific Report, 10 September 2017:
• Dying en route to or in destination countries
https://asiapacificreport.nz/2017/09/10/vanuatu-to-deport-illegal-workers-in-labour-market-crackdown • The risk or reality of being trafficked (see section on ‘Human Trafficking’)
30 IFRC Policy on Migration, 2009.
31 The Sustainable Development Goals contained ‘Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (see UN General Assembly
Resolution 70/1, 2015).
32 Report of the United Nations’ Secretary General, “Making migration work for all”, 2017.
14 15
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
Women and Migration
According to the latest available figures, almost exactly Manila Declaration on Women Household
half (49.4%) of all international migrants in the Asia
Pacific region are women. However, the proportion of men Service Workers
to women is much more dramatic amongst temporary
migrant workers. In many countries, women comprise a In 2015, National Societies from the Asia Pacific and Middle East North
37
low number of workers migrating through official channels.33 Africa region adopted the Manila Declaration. The declaration recognises
and declares, inter alia, that:
In some instances, when female migrant workers report
their experience of abuse or exploitation overseas, countries • Migration is not only an issue of people movement but more importantly
of origin and destination may choose to restrict or ban
an issue involving basic human rights and the protection of human
migration by women.34 Bans or restrictions on migration by
men occur with less frequency in the region. Studies by the dignity.
International Labour Organization (ILO) have found that • Among migrant workers, women workers, especially those who work
these restrictions or bans may result in harm to migrant as domestic helpers, are most vulnerable, prone to abuse in view of
women and adolescent girls, including increasing the risk their isolation and without sufficient means to obtain support and
of exploitation and trafficking.35 assistance when needed.
• National Societies wish to adopt a common position, and take collective
Despite the benefits received by low-paid female migrants,
they may be at risk because of their status as women, often action and utilise the largest humanitarian network of the Red Cross
coming from poor families, with low levels of education and and Red Crescent Societies, to protect the rights of labour migrants -
few relevant skills. For domestic workers, these risks are with a particular focus on women household service workers.
particularly acute as they are often employed in isolated • National Societies shall do their utmost to exercise humanitarian
workplaces and in a sector not usually covered by labour diplomacy to influence their respective governments and other
regulations in countries of destination. stakeholders to assist and protect women migrant workers in
In recognition of the specific vulnerabilities of domestic
distress and provide programs which protect the rights, reduce the
workers, in 2011 the ILO adopted the ILO Domestic Workers’ vulnerabilities and support the best interests of women migrant
Convention (No. 189), which calls for domestic workers to workers.
be covered by international labour standards and receive • National Societies commit to strengthen partnerships within and
fair wages and other benefits.36 Also, in recognition of the across countries in order to ensure the working environment of migrant
specific needs of female migrants, especially domestic workers in host countries fosters tolerance and cultural respect, and
workers, Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies
that the individual needs and vulnerabilities of migrant workers,
from the Asia Pacific and Middle East North Africa (MENA)
regions adopted the Manila Declaration on Women irrespective of their status are properly addressed, consistent with the
Household Service Workers in May 2015. principles of humanity and universality.
33 The proportion of women who migrated through regular channels from Bangladesh in 2016 was almost 25%, although this represented a rapid 37 IFRC, Manila Declaration on Women Household Service Workers, 2015. Available at: http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Documents/Asia-pacific/201505/
increase from only 4% in 2007. UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (2017), ‘Towards Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration in the Declaration.pdf
Asia Pacific Region: Challenges and Opportunities’, p. 21
34 ILO, Protected or Put in Harm’s Way: Bans and restrictions on women’s labour migration in Southeast Asia, 2017; ILO and GAATW, No Easy Exit:
Migration bans affecting women from Nepal, 2014.
35 ILO, Protected or Put in Harm’s Way: Bans and restrictions on women’s labour migration in Southeast Asia, 2017; ILO and GAATW, No Easy Exit:
Migration bans affecting women from Nepal, 2014.
36 C189 - Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189): http://www.ilo.org/dyn/normlex/en/f?p=NORMLEXPUB:12100:0::NO::P12100_ILO_CODE:C189
16 17
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
Children and Migration Children may also migrate independently. The number of child migrants can be quite significant:
for example, during a regularisation exercise for migrants in Thailand in 2004, more than 93,000
people who registered were under the age of 15 years.
Children affected by migration may be grouped
into three categories: Unaccompanied or separated children may face a number of risks when migrating, including:
• Children who migrate with family members
• A lack of civil registration, or incomplete registration on arrival
• Children born to migrant parents in a country
• Best Interests of the Child Assessments and Determinations that may not meet international
of destination 38
standards
• Children who migrate alone or with people
• Formal and informal barriers to basic services, including healthcare, education and housing
other than their family members.
• Elevated mental health and psychosocial risks including social isolation, grief, post-
traumatic stress disorders, anger and relational issues.39
In most countries of destination in Asia and the
Pacific, low-paid migrants are not permitted to
bring dependents with them. Thus, children who
accompany or are born to low-skilled migrants are
often in an irregular status. One immediate impact
of having an irregular status is that a child may Protection of Children on the Move
not be able to attend formal education. Even if the 40
host country provides for universal education - as The position of the IFRC towards Children on the Move is that:
is the case in Thailand - familial, economic and
community barriers result in only a small fraction
• All children on the move, irrespective of their legal standing, age, gender,
of migrant children, or the children of migrants,
enrolling in formal education. or health status should have access to protection and humanitarian
assistance.
Child migrants, and the children of migrants, may • Because of their higher vulnerabilities, unaccompanied and separated
be further vulnerable to the worst forms of child children require particular and urgent protection.
labour, as well as arrest and detention, especially • No child should be detained based solely on her or his migration status.
as irregular migrants. • In order to improve the protection and humanitarian assistance of
children on the move, it is necessary to meaningfully engage and provide
leadership opportunities for girls and boys to identify protection risks,
and find and implement solutions.
An End to the • More needs to be done to enhance the evidence-base of what specific
Detention of Children interventions work to protect children on the move and those that do
not, and why.
It is the position of the IFRC that
children should not be detained
because of their immigration status.
The IFRC has called on all States
across the globe to: [Eliminate the]
detention of children solely for
reasons related to their migration
status and the separation of migrant
parents and children.
38 Technically, children born to migrant parents in a country of transit or destination are not international migrants, but the law and authorities in many 39 A specific gendered need of adolescent girls on the move – and female migrants - is sufficient menstrual hygiene management support, as
countries treat them as such. IFRC Policy Brief: Global Compact on Migration. highlighted in assessments conducted by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society and IFRC in response to children arriving in Bangladesh from Myanmar
in 2017. IFRC Position Paper: Protection and Assistance for Children on the Move, 2017.
40 IFRC Position Paper: Protection and Assistance of Children on the Move, 2017.
18 19International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
The Role of Asia Pacific National Societies
in the Context of Labour Migration Strengths of the IFRC and National Societies’
Work with and for Migrants
There are many actors, including governments and non-governmental
organisations, working to address humanitarian needs and enhance
strengths in labour migration and respond to human trafficking. It is
important to ensure that National Societies and the IFRC are working to
42
our strengths – namely:
• Local, volunteer-led presence, and wide reach to and trust among
communities across the region
• Global network of 191 National Societies
• Auxiliary role, including the ability to advocate for migrants in ways
other actors cannot
• Humanitarian mandate grounded in the seven Fundamental Principles
• Commitment to assist all people based on need, irrespective of legal
status, coupled with a reputation for impartiality and confidentiality
The Approach of the IFRC and National Societies’ work that some migrants in irregular situations trust
with and for Migrants • Access to detention centres (including immigration detention)
• Restoring Family Links work to find missing migrants and avert
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is in a unique position to assist, situations of broken family links
protect and advocate for all migrants, including migrant workers. • Psychosocial expertise which migrants and their families need after
exploitation and traumas
This is because the approach of the Red Cross and Red Crescent enables National Societies to • Presence in disasters and conflicts, as well as large-scale population
work with and for migrants irrespective of their specific legal status or category.41 This means movements
that the IFRC and their member National Societies - unlike many other actors working on
• Long-standing reputation for health and care activities for all people
migration – are not restricted to working with and/or assisting certain categories of migrants.
Some local, national and international actors find themselves hampered by their mandates,
which restrict their work to only with those people who, for example, are categorised or meet
a legal definition of being trafficked, or as asylum seekers and refugees.
The unique position of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to assist, protect
The “deliberately broad” approach of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and advocate for all migrants, including migrant workers, is also due to engagement in 191
supports the work of National Societies with migrants who have humanitarian needs, but countries across the globe – spanning nearly all countries of origin, transit and destination. Working
who do not necessarily meet the legal definitions of specific categories or migrants. This together along migratory routes means that National Societies can optimise humanitarian action
also enables National Societies to work with migrants whose experience falls into multiple with and for migrant workers.
migration-related categories – all at one time or at different times during their migration
journeys, in recognition of the heterogeneity of people who migrate.
41 IFRC Policy on Migration, 2009. 42 IFRC Global Strategy on Migration 2018 – 2022: Reducing Vulnerability, Enhancing Resilience
20 21International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
Doha Dialogue In 2017, the Red Cross Red Crescent Asia Pacific Migration Network
(APMN) facilitated a ‘Peer-to-Peer Exchange Programme’ whereby three
In 2014 and 2015, the Red Cross Red Crescent ‘Doha Dialogue on Migration’ selected representatives from National Societies in the Asia Pacific
hosted a series of events throughout the Asia Pacific and Middle East- region spent time with the Australian Red Cross.45 The participant from
North Africa (MENA) regions. the Sri Lankan Red Cross Society returned to Sri Lanka with examples
of programmatic support that could be integrated into the work of the
The events brought together a range of stakeholders focused on labour National Society, such as psychosocial support and livelihoods support to
migration, including Movement partners, humanitarian organisations, families affected by migration.
non-governmental organisations, government representatives, academics,
research institutions and others, with the aims of:
1. identifying good practices and examples of national, regional and The work of Asia Pacific National Societies with and for
cross-regional collaboration, and migrant workers
2. evaluating ways to strengthen relevant labour laws, policies and
programmes to protect the rights and interests of migrant workers.
Asia Pacific National Societies and
Cross-Regional Cooperation
Vanuatu Red Cross Society extended RFL services to Ni-Vanuatu working
in New Zealand and Australia under seasonal labour migration schemes
when Tropical Cyclone Pam stuck in March 2015. Lists of workers were
provided by the New Zealand and Australian National Societies to their
counterparts in Vanuatu, who visited over 100 families in villages to
get information to relay back to migrant workers in Australia and New
Zealand. In the Asia Pacific region, many National Societies see the importance of addressing the
needs of migrant workers.46 Further, several National Societies have also identified that there
are humanitarian consequences not only for many migrant workers, but also for their family
Philippine Red Cross has coordinated with the ICRC on the frontline of
members who stay behind, those who join them, and the communities that host migrant workers.
conflict zones to trace Philippine migrant workers in Gaza, Syria, and
Libya when conflicts broke out in these locations. This section looks at the specific roles and activities of Asia Pacific National Societies with and
for migrant workers, in countries of origin and destination across the Asia Pacific region.
Bangladesh Red Crescent Society provided RFL services during the
repatriation of irregular Bangladeshi migrants intercepted by authorities
at sea en route to India in 2008, and to Indonesia in 2015.43 In each instance,
and in cooperation with the Indian Red Cross Society and Indonesian
Red Cross Society respectively, phone call services and “I am alive
messages” were sent via the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society to families
in Bangladesh. Upon return, National Society volunteers accompanied the 43 The ‘Andaman Sea Crisis’ of 2015 involved prospective migrant workers as well as refugees, and people originating from both Bangladesh and
44
returning Bangladeshi migrants to their home villages. Rakhine, Myanmar, in a ‘mixed migration’ context.
44 IFRC (forthcoming) Guidance Note on Human Mobility In The Context Of Disasters And Climate Change: The Role Of Red Cross Red Crescent
National Societies In Asia Pacific
45 In 2017 representatives from Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, Pakistan Red Crescent Society and Sri Lanka Red Cross Society spent 2 weeks in
Australia participating in a Peer-to-Peer Exchange Programme hosted by the Australian Red Cross.
46 Documented by the Red Cross Red Crescent Asia Pacific Migration Network (APMN) in a report of the ‘Mapping of National Society migration-related
activities in the Asia Pacific Region’ undertaken in 2016.
22 23International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
Asia Pacific National Societies’ Initiatives with and for
Migrant Workers in Countries of Origin The Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Bureau of
Foreign Employment, provides training to migrant workers before they leave.
Training consists of first aid and RFL awareness, as well as contact details for Red
Reducing the risks associated with migration Cross or Red Crescent National Societies and the Sri Lankan Embassy in countries
of destination. ‘Safe migration’ messaging highlights that migrants should keep
Migrant workers often need to know about the potential risks and opportunities associated important documents safely in a plastic bag; leave copies with family members
with migration. The 2009 IFRC Policy on Migration emphasises that although the International at home; inform their family of their workplace and accommodation address in
Red Cross Red Crescent Movement must remain neutral at all times, National Societies may the country of destination; memorise their passport number and family phone
undertake important work to raise awareness amongst potential migrants about the risks of number and not rely on having these numbers stored in their mobile phone, as
migration, and thus enhance migrants’ resilience. these are regularly confiscated by employers or recruiters.
Awareness-raising can take many forms. For example, National Societies can contribute to
Nepal Red Cross Society recognises that in the Nepali context, migration is a
raising awareness by undertaking activities within communities. National Societies can also
source of pride and an opportunity for increased livelihood opportunities. At the
help individuals and their families in making informed personal decisions about whether to
migrate or not, and under what conditions. Many National Societies are active in regional, same time, the National Society knows that preventing ‘disasters’ in migration is
cross-regional and global efforts to promote the safety, dignity and rights of all migrants.47 as important as preventing natural disasters. With the support of the government,
Nepal Red Cross Society distributes leaflets containing information about RFL
A number of National Societies in the Asia Pacific region offer support and guidance to services and where to get help if needed to migrants at passport offices and
prospective migrants. Often, but not always, information provision and guidance is connected airports. Leaflets are also distributed by volunteers in border areas, particularly
to the Restoring Family Links (RFL) services of National Societies. RFL services are wide-spread areas which the National Society has identified as departure points for irregular
and the RFL network of staff and volunteers across the Asia Pacific region has huge advantages migrants. Nepal Red Cross Society also facilitates broadcasting of ‘safe migration’
over many other actors promoting safe migration - they are already trusted, culturally sensitive, messaging via the radio including information about help available to people in
and speak local languages. detention. Over 100 different radio stations play audio recordings developed by
the National Society three or four times daily.
Myanmar Red Cross Society provides safe migration messaging while informing
Awareness Raising Activities in Countries of Origin people in Myanmar about RFL services. A key message delivered to prospective
migrants is the importance of maintaining contact with their family, and
Philippine Red Cross, with support from the IFRC, launched the ‘Virtual Volunteer’ informing their family of their whereabouts while away from home - advice
in 2017. An online application to provide information to Filipino migrants and directly related to averting situations of migrants going missing. Myanmar Red
to those planning to migrate, the ‘app’ contains information about services Cross Society has given interviews with national media about safe migration, as a
available from the Philippine Red Cross, what items to pack when going overseas, way to disseminate information widely to people across the country.
psychosocial advice for stress and hardship, and contacts abroad. It includes
a link to a First Aid ‘app’, and answers questions about what to do if someone
finds themselves in danger, has been recruited illegally or has had their passport
confiscated, and who to contact if their family at home has an emergency.
Crucially, migrants and their families can access this information both at home In order for National Societies to be able to mitigate the risks associated with migration, the
and while overseas. conditions in countries along migratory routes must be adequately understood, and information
provided to potential migrants must be up-to-date. Hence, it is of considerable value for National
Cambodia Red Cross Society undertakes outreach activities amongst communities Societies to work with and for potential migrants, and for cooperation and exchange between
National Societies in countries of origin, transit and destination to be strengthened.
in rural border areas of the country - areas of high out-migration to Thailand and
Malaysia. In 2017 Cambodia Red Cross volunteers reached 37 villages and over
1,000 people with messaging about ‘safe migration’ including information about
the importance of prospective migrants taking identify documents with them to
prove their age, and other tips about how to migrate safely.
Bangladesh Red Crescent Society raises awareness about safe migration by
broadcasting a ‘doco-drama’ in communities. This film includes six key messages
on safe migration, as well as discussing the needs of irregular migrants. The film
emphasises that migrants should always make the final decision about whether
to migrate or not.
47 For example through contributions to the IFRC statements delivered during the national, regional and global consultations and negotiations on the
Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.
24 25International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking: Addressing the humanitarian consequences of labour migration and trafficking:
The role of Asia Pacific National Socities The role of Asia Pacific National Socities
The Red Cross Red Crescent Asia Pacific
Migration Network (APMN)
The APMN is a regional forum of Asia Pacific National Societies established
in 2012 to explore critical issues and contribute to a growing body of
knowledge for the benefit of migrants, based on the International Red
Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s Fundamental Principles. Through the
APMN, information can be shared between multiple National Societies
on migration issues and activities, enabling knowledge exchange and
mutual mentoring on good practices in the region. The APMN activities
include peer-to-peer learning, online meetings, thematic Working Groups,
research and an annual in-person meeting of the Network.
Families Who Stay Behind
To better inform effective activities with and for migrants, National Societies may also engage
with discussions and partnerships with external partners including, critically, migrant workers In the Asia Pacific region, migrant workers’ family members (including children) may choose not
themselves. to migrate or be unable to do so due to restrictive conditions attached to work visas, and instead
stay behind in the country of origin. A number of National Societies have identified support for
Programming Principles: National families who stay behind, should humanitarian needs arise. These may include:
Societies’ work with and for Migrant •
•
In some cases, child abuse among children staying behind
Lost family and community links
Workers in Countries of Origin • Families who are dependent on remittances may not receive them for long periods of time,
impacts of which may include encountering high-interest debt to pay for education and other
basic services
• Psycho-social needs can be high, especially when family members who have migrated for
When working with and for potential migrants, National Societies should consider the following work are missing, in detention, or caught in conflict or disaster situations
general programming principles: • Communities of origin may face situations where the majority of a certain age-demographic
or many of the more educated people from the community leave to find work elsewhere. This
1. National Societies maintain at all times their impartiality, neutrality, and independence. may result in negative economic impacts, including cycles of poverty and high dependency
They do not encourage, prevent or dissuade migration, nor do they participate in the ratios – with children, the elderly, and people with health needs remaining in the place of
enforcement of government schemes to hinder migration or certain forms of it. origin.
2. Action to reduce risks of migration is part of an integrated and impartial approach to
address needs and vulnerabilities linked to migration.
3. National Societies engage with communities from which migrants originate; they have
a thorough understanding of migratory pressures on them, and make efforts to alleviate
conditions that induce people to migrate against their will and desire. Support to Families Staying Behind
4. Information provided to potential migrants is comprehensive and includes possible risks
of migration as well as relevant conditions in countries of transit and destination, their
rights and obligations, and how to access humanitarian services. Philippine Red Cross combines providing psycho-social and RFL support to
5. National Societies in countries of origin, transit and destination work together to ensure families who stay behind to cope with changes to their familial structure due
that the needs of migrants, and the risks they are exposed to, are properly identified and to migration. Philippine Red Cross volunteers visit homes and schools to check
taken into account, and that potential migrants receive correct and up-to-date information. if a migrant’s family is safe and well. They provide crisis intervention support
6. Gender-specific concerns and topics should be addressed in pre-departure trainings, some to the families when needed, and through RFL services work to reunite family
sessions of which could be gender-segregated. Good practice pre-departure messaging does
members who have lost contact with relatives who have migrated.
not stigmatise sex workers, workers in any other sector, or women generally by portraying
them as victims or in disempowering ways.48
48 Topics could include: self-esteem, negotiation skills, leadership, women’s rights, financial literacy, sex and sexual and reproductive health and rights,
family issues, and gender-based violence, including violence faced by men and LGBTI people.
26 27You can also read
