Our union SLNSS is engaged on a project sponsored by SARTUC on the subject of “Safe Migration” specially concerning migrant workers.

This seminar conducted on this subject was held on 20th February 2022 and the participants were drawn from the Colombo district. Of the 14 women participants and 33 men participants 4 were chosen from returnees who had already served 02 or 05 years in the Middle East countries. The balance came from aspiring migrants who were awaiting to take up their employment. The aims and the objections of the seminar was discussed by the General Secretary of our union.

The main presentation was made by Secretary of SLNSS Women’s’ sector.

The issues that came up at the discussion were;

• Safe Migration and Fair Recruitment
• National and International policies, law and regulations for Migrant Workers
• Facing difficult situations at the work place such as physical and sexual harassment.
• Retention of identity documents by the employer.
• Inability of the Sri Lankan embassy to render the necessary assistance to workers in difficulty.
• Introduced Migrant Recruitment Advisor for them to report about their experience and complains.

The second presentation was made by Assistant Secretary of Women’s division.

The issues came up with her were;

• How to protect the members of the migrant worker’s family.
• New welfare scheme for them which was introduced by SLNSS.

The third presentation was made by President of Women’s division who is working in Vocational Training Authority

• Introduction of Skill Training.
• The government programs for migrant workers.
• Skill development of Migrant worker and benefits of them.

In answering the questions raised by the audience taken decisions at the end of this seminar

• To prepare a booklet giving a simple set of advices to those going abroad.
• Some important telephone numbers in the receiving country to be used in case of emergency.
• Gaining some knowledge regarding the receiving country and its religious and cultural values.
• To launch a new branch for migrant workers.