Phnom Penh: Migrant workers should be given the highest priority as key contributors to the promotion of universal human rights. Minister of Labor and Vocational Training, Heng Sour, has called on all development partners and stakeholders to protect and respect the rights and freedoms of migrant workers, as well as to provide them with essential benefits that enable their meaningful contribution to universal human rights.
The Minister made these remarks during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Royal Government of Cambodia and Ms. Nellie Ghusayni, Head of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Cambodia. The MoU aims to strengthen the labor sector, with a particular focus on migrant workers in Cambodia, and was signed at the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training.
Minister Heng Sour emphasized that migrant workers not only bring benefits to their home countries but also significantly contribute to the economies of the countries that receive them. Despite their vital role in the global economy, migrant workers often face challenges related to their rights and freedoms. It is therefore essential to protect and respect their human rights, ensuring they receive fair treatment and access to benefits.
International standards, such as the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, affirm that migrant workers and their families have the right to freedom of thought, religion, and movement—including the right to leave and return to their home countries without undue restrictions. They must be protected from torture, forced labor, slavery, and inhumane treatment. Additionally, migrant workers have the right to liberty and security, protection against violence, and fair legal processes if detained or accused of crimes.
Migrant workers should also enjoy non-discrimination and equal access to employment opportunities, vocational training, and social protections comparable to those available to nationals of the host country. They have the right to hold their own passports and documents, receive fair remuneration, access adequate accommodation, and transfer their earnings to their home countries. Importantly, their irregular status must never be used as a justification to deny these fundamental rights.
Regional frameworks, such as those established by ASEAN, emphasize comprehensive protection during crises, access to justice, and the right to collective bargaining and freedom of movement within host countries. Governments are encouraged to facilitate migrant workers’ access to courts and grievance mechanisms to address labor disputes and abuses effectively.
In conclusion, safeguarding the rights, freedoms, and benefits of migrant workers is crucial for their dignity and well-being. Upholding international and regional standards ensures that migrant workers can contribute productively while being treated with fairness and respect.
