Recent events of unrest and protests were sparked through “years of neglect” brought to the forefront “even more so than before” the many socio-economic challenges that migrant workers live with, says the Maldivian Red Crescent (MRC).
The assertion was made in a statement released by the humanitarian organization on ensuring the protection of rights of migrant workers in the Maldives, at a time expatriate workers are taking to the streets over the drawn-out issue of unpaid wages, in hordes.
Migrant workers in the Maldives have contributed immensely to the development of the country and are an “integral” part of our society, as a population that makes up a significant part of the communities of Maldives.
Many of the concerns raised by migrant workers during recent protests and confrontations with the authorities, are issues that must be addressed swiftly, said the organization.
The statement reads that lives of migrant workers living in the Maldives as well as the vulnerabilities that they are exposed to, have always been reasons for concern for the organization.
The recent events also mirror the urgency with which work must be carried out to protect the rights and dignity of migrants in the Maldives, who are demanding the fulfillment of basic, fundamental rights.
As such, MRC stressed that safe working conditions, timely payment of wages, safe and dignified living conditions, better access to healthcare and access to systems that can facilitate these rights that have not been met thus far.
Many migrants over periods of time also find themselves in irregular situations and without paperwork leading them to be undocumented which exacerbate many existing conditions. Through the many complexities that make up the many challenges that migrant workers face it is crucial to acknowledge that employers who bring in migrants must be held responsible and accountable - to ensuring that all the aforementioned needs and rights are met. The onus to provide better working and living conditions for migrants’ rests in large measure with the companies that employ and bring in workers.”Maldivian Red Crescent
Stressing the vulnerable populations always suffer disproportionately during crises, MRC noted that through extreme weather events other disasters such as fires and the consequent displacement even the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic migrants have been facing the dire consequences of the crises and have multiple barriers and challenges to return to their regular lives as well.
MRC, through its work to better prepare communities for emergencies and disasters and during response and recovery prioritizes inclusion of the needs of such populations and those affected, in its humanitarian work. Whether it is through better risk communications and community engagement to enhance access to lice saving information, through the inclusion and participation of migrants as volunteers in the work that is done by bridging capacities and through lobbying and advocating with the relevant authorities MRC remains and will continue to remain steadfast in our humanitarian work to ensure that nobody is left behind. The protection of human Rights in peace time is important to safeguard the same during crisis.”Maldivian Red Crescent
The organization has called on communities to work towards better social inclusion and cohesion, amid the ever-increasing xenophobia and racism towards migrant workers.
Further, the organization called on employers of migrant workers to pay fair wages to the workers in addition to providing safer working environment.
Highlighting that communities are strong and resilient when everyone is able to face and come out of crisis and disasters together, MRC stated that they have searched the relevant public authorities to strengthen the work that needs to be done to safeguard and protect the rights of migrant workers
The organization went on to express commitment to remain impartial, neutral and independent in their work in alignment with these values.
The values transcend race religion status and background and we will be there for those who need us the most when they need us the most.”Maldivian Red Crescent
