Zero Cost Recruitment

Based on recent statistical analysis, Bangladesh has significantly increased the number of workers sent abroad, resulting in substantial remittances that have positively impacted our economy. However, a concerning percentage of Bangladeshi workers remain undocumented. There have been instances of recruitment organizations imposing financial burdens on these workers, making them vulnerable in foreign countries. The International Labor Organization (ILO) has emphasized that recruitment fees or related costs should not be borne by workers, be it the employer, their subsidiaries, labor recruiters, or any third parties providing related services.

The current outbreak of the coronavirus has abruptly disrupted the deployment and employment of millions of migrant workers worldwide, many of whom owe money to agents, subagents, family members, or small lenders back home. Shockingly, a considerable number of migrant workers employed in frontline healthcare services have tested positive for COVID-19. Due to the existing global economic system, migrant workers may remain in debt for a year or two before they can earn a reasonable living income to support themselves and their families.

Acknowledging the positive contribution of migrants for inclusive growth and sustainable development, the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (2030 SDGs) stress the importance of fair treatment for migrants. The Global Compact for Migration (GCM), approved by nations in 2018, explicitly urges states to promote fair and ethical recruiting and to uphold working conditions that allow for decent labor, thereby preventing debt bondage and exploitation. Effective regulation and monitoring of the recruitment industry are crucial in achieving this.

Regional Consultative Processes have recognized that ensuring decent employment for migrants requires addressing concerns related to migrant worker recruitment. The 2016 Colombo Process ministerial statement encouraged member states to work towards reforming the recruitment sector, advocating for the recruitment/placement of migrant workers from Colombo Process member countries at no cost to the worker. Governments must also ensure that private recruiting firms, both in the countries of origin and destination, support their employees, particularly those in the first six months of their contract, during this ongoing pandemic crisis.