Sunday
8th Sep 2024
Dhivehi Edition
President Dr.Muizzu
Government to Publicize List of Employers Neglecting Foreign Workers and Impose Fines
President Muizzu
In a decisive move to address the issue of foreign worker neglect, the Maldivian government has announced the compilation and public release of a list of employers who fail to adequately care for foreign workers. These employers will face fines and potentially further measures if neglectful practices continue. The decision was made following recommendations from the Cabinet during its recent meeting.
The President has outlined six primary steps to resolve the issue of foreign worker neglect:
1. Comprehensive Data Collection: This includes gathering information, ten fingerprints, and facial recognition data of foreigners residing in all residential areas, resorts, industrial zones, and agricultural island.
2. Voluntary Return (AVR) Program Management: Implementation and management of the AVR program to facilitate the voluntary return of foreigners.
3. Enhanced Enforcement Measures: Strengthening the enforcement system to tackle foreign worker neglect. This involves creating a publicly accessible list of neglectful employers and imposing fines. Employers with repeated offenses will face additional punitive measures.
4. Employment Act Amendments: The Cabinet has decided to fast-track the submission of necessary amendments to the Employment Act to the Parliament, aiming for a permanent solution to the problem of illegal foreign workers.
5. Collaboration with Immigration and Police: The government, in collaboration with the police, is conducting a special operation to address illegal foreign workers. This includes the introduction of a platform called Immigration Watch to report such cases.
6. Public Accountability: Making the list of neglectful employers public to ensure transparency and accountability.
This initiative comes in response to growing concerns over the treatment of foreign workers in the Maldives. The government's approach is designed to ensure better oversight and enforcement of regulations protecting foreign workers' rights. By implementing these measures, the Maldives aims to create a more secure and fair environment for all workers.
The decision underscores the government's commitment to addressing labor issues and ensuring that employers meet their responsibilities towards foreign workers. The introduction of stringent measures and public accountability is expected to deter neglect and improve the overall treatment of foreign labor in the country.