An Arab Migrant Resource Center (MRC), a community-based organization in Amman (Jordan), has launched an initiative to support the migrant workers from countries such as Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Nepal, working in the country.
The project was initiated in a program held at the General Trade Union of Workers in Textile, Garment and Clothing Industries. The project will focus on issues such as decent working conditions, working hours, health and safety issues, equal pay, justice and gender equality. Additionally, it will also ensure migrant workers’ rights to join the trade unions in Jordan.
The project is carried out with the full support from the General Federation of Jordanian Trade Unions.
Ben Ammar, Arab Trade Union Confederation (ATUC) Office Coordinator, highlighted that in most cases the workers are not allowed to join the trade union, even if they are part of it. They are also not given the right to vote or to become a worker’s representative.
In 2015, a MoU was signed by ATUC and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations TUC to advance trade union alliances and to build strong bond between the two parties in protecting the migrant workers.
The MRC plays a vital role in empowering and protecting the rights of migrant workers residing in Jordan. While ATUC is responsible in looking into the matters related to the victims of abuse and exploitation.
MRC is also planning to involve and expand this initiative to the other Members of the League of Arab States so as to put the light on the labour woes.
