Asian labour migration: issues and challenges in an era of globalization
The author first discusses problems with current terminology and examines some popular myths about migrant workers. He points out that receiving countries reap considerable benefits from migration, which are usually overlooked. He traces main trends and features in Asian labour migration in the recent past, and identifies the most vulnerable groups of migrant workers who need priority attention. The paper also highlights the current dilemma faced by labour sending countries in ‘protection’ of national workers abroad and promotion of overseas employment. In the final section, the author discusses the specific role of trade unions and broader policy options open to countries for protecting migrant workers in the light of ILO and other international instruments.
The analysis of Asian labour migration shows that Asian countries have a long way to go to ensure adequate protection to migrant workers who are contributing in a major way to the economic development and prosperity in the region. The basic elements of a policy agenda towards this end are:
- management of migration flows is crucial because international labour migration is likely to increase in the future
- bilateral and regional consultations and agreements. Migration policies consistent with the basic rights of migrant workers are possible only when there is cooperation between sending and receiving countries
- protection of human rights of migrant workers
- greater role by social partners in migration issues
- control of trafficking of women and children
- public information campaigns on the risks and dangers of irregular migration and the phenomenon of migrant trafficking and related abuses should be launched as a preventive measure
