6 key actions to improve migrant worker rights worldwide
Migrant workers are the backbone of economies worldwide, yet they remain among the most vulnerable to exploitation, forced labour, and modern slavery.
In Gulf Cooperation Council states, migrant workers make up the majority of the labour force in key sectors, including construction, domestic work, and hospitality.
Migrant workers are 3 times more likely to be in forced labour than non-migrant workers, according to the Global Slavery Index.
Governments, employers, and global actors must act with urgency to protect the rights of migrant workers and uphold their dignity.
Walk Free and the Global Migrant Workers Network are calling for bold, coordinated action to ensure migrant workers are treated with fairness, respect, and humanity.
1. End recruitment fees and adopt ethical hiring practices
Many migrant workers incur high recruitment fees that leave them in debt before they begin work.
Recruitment must be free, fair, ethical, and gender-responsive to prevent exploitation from the start.
Governments must regulate recruitment agencies and hold employers accountable for responsible hiring.
2. Guarantee minimum wages without discrimination
Migrant workers should receive fair pay for their work, regardless of race, gender, nationality, or language.
Establishing and enforcing non-discriminatory minimum wages is critical to ensuring equal treatment under the law.
Wages must be enough to meet basic living standards and support families.
3. Ensure safe and decent working and living conditions
Migrant workers often endure overcrowded accommodation and unsafe workplaces.
Governments must require and enforce minimum standards for both working and living environments.
No worker should have to sacrifice their safety or dignity to earn a living.
4. Provide access to social protection and healthcare
Migrant workers are frequently excluded from health services and social protection schemes.
Access to healthcare, sick leave, and injury compensation must be universal and not tied to immigration status.
Social protection is a human right and essential for worker wellbeing.
5. Protect freedom of association, expression, and movement
Migrant workers must be free to organise, speak up, and change jobs without fear of retaliation or detention.
These rights are fundamental and must be protected in law and practice.
Governments must create safe spaces for migrant workers’ voices to be heard.
6. Abolish the kafala system and uphold labour rights
The kafala system continues to give employers excessive control over migrant workers’ lives.
This system restricts freedom, facilitates abuse, and contributes to forced labour.
Tied visas must be abolished, and full labour protections extended to all migrant workers.
The leadership and contributions of migrant workers must be recognised
Migrant workers are not just labourers — they are leaders, caregivers, and agents of change.
They build economies, sustain homes, and strengthen communities.
Policymakers must recognise the value migrant workers bring and ensure their rights are protected and fulfilled.
