The International Organization for Migration Special Liaison Office in Addis Ababa launched The Other Migrants Crisis report on January 29, 2016 at the Ellily International Hotel. It focuses on measures applicable to receiving countries in protecting migrant workers from human rights abuses, including forced labor and human trafficking.  Special attention was given to protecting migrant workers against exploitation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The event was attended by Ethiopian Government officials, NGOs, International Organizations and sectoral stakeholders.

The Report is produced within the framework of IOM’s project on ‘Action to Protect and Assist Vulnerable and Exploited Migrant Workers in Middle East and North Africa (PAVE)’. It is funded by the European Union and co-funded by the Italian Ministry of Interior. Specifically, the report highlights results of a quantitative and qualitative research exposing current conditions of migrant workers trafficked and exploited across MENA. The studies were informed by the case data of 162 victims (including Ethiopians) assisted under PAVE as well as by focus group discussions with beneficiaries and roundtables with Governments and NGOs/IOs from two origin countries of migrants (Ethiopia and Philippines), and two host countries (Lebanon and Jordan).   

Ongoing armed conflicts and economic instability across MENA create conducive climates for modern slavery. Sectarian violence, the rise of extremism and record displacement of populations are heavily impacting the region. These complex humanitarian emergencies inadvertently relegate the critical needs of the burgeoning migrant population workforce.

Migrant workers trapped in conflict zones are being captured by armed groups to be used as human shields. This, compounded with smuggling and trafficking reports, further heightens the crucial need to act immediately. The continuous supply and demand flow for cheap migrant labour urges governments in the region to act in response to these human rights violations.

Discussion points raised during the launch of the report included enquiries on the existing protection mechanisms offered to migrants. Finally, ways to efficiently implement the recommendations and specifying the roles of countries of destination in protecting vulnerable migrants were underlined.