Trade unions from Asian and Arab states convened in Jordan on 24-25 September 2024 to reinforce international cooperation and address the exploitation faced by migrant workers. Facilitated by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), ITUC-Asia Pacific, and Arab Trade Union Confederation (Arab TUC), the interregional meeting brought together for a dialogue trade union representatives from Indonesia, the Philippines, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Bahrain, and Iraq to build an intrenational network linking unions from both origin and destination countries to advance fair recruitment, ensure decent work, and end forced labour practices affecting migrant workers.
The discussions focused on five critical areas: the challenges of organising migrant workers under restrictive conditions in the Arab region; the legal and practical discrimination faced by migrant workers, particularly in Kuwait, Iraq, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan; the need to align migration policies with just transition frameworks and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs); developing a coordinated action plan between origin and destination country unions using tools like the Migrant Recruitment Advisor; and preparing for the Global Compact for Migration (GCM) regional review in 2025.
Shoya Yoshida, General Secretary of ITUC-Asia Pacific, opened the meeting by highlighting the indispensable role of migrant workers in the global economy, stating:
“From Asia to the Arab region, migrant workers form the backbone of industries like agriculture, construction, healthcare, and hospitality. Despite their essential contributions, these workers often face severe exploitation, discrimination, and abuse. Trade unions must act as defenders of their rights by mobilising networks, sharing resources, and building synergies to ensure these workers are treated with dignity and respect, no matter where they are.”
The trade union representatives outlined strategies for overcoming restrictions on organising and fostering better social dialogue. They emphasised the importance of including migration in just transition policies to ensure sustainable development. They also agreed on implementing coordinated efforts to influence bilateral trade union agreements and improve monitoring of recruitment practices through digital tools. The action plan also prioritises advocacy for dismantling the kafala system in the Gulf region.
At the conclusion of the two-day meeting, participants adopted a joint action plan focused on specific destination countries, including Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Bahrain, and Iraq. Key recommendations from the unions include:
The trade union representatives also discussed the upcoming Asia-Pacific Regional Review of the Global Compact for Migration, scheduled for 4-6 February 2025 in Bangkok. This review presents a critical opportunity to assess regional progress, identify challenges, and align strategies for rights-based migration governance. The ITUC affiliates agreed that advancing the protection of migrant workers requires strong advocacy at both national and international levels.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to expanding cross-border cooperation and leveraging alliances with global union federations.
The ITUC-Asia Pacific, Arab TUC, and ITUC, along with their affiliates, will continue to drive these efforts forward by promoting social dialogue, supporting union campaigns, and ensuring that the voices of migrant workers remain at the forefront of policy discussions. With this collective resolve, trade unions are poised to protect the rights of migrant workers and foster a fairer, more just world for all workers.
The ITUC-Asia Pacific, Arab TUC, and ITUC Global developed plans to promote social dialogue and supporting union-led campaigns, advocating for migrant workers’ rights to be central in policy agendas. With these efforts, the unions aim to drive meaningful progress toward fair treatment and justice for workers worldwide.
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