All items filed under News
Lost in the Garden City – Singapore’s migrant worker system and the Sustainable Development Goals
Singapore says it is committed to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Our report examines what the reality of our migrant labour scene says about implementation and progress.
Stern warning – punishment without due process
Although a stern warning is not supposed to affect "legal rights, interests, or liabilities" we found that it's not quite true when issued to migrant workers. The effects therefore constitute punishment without due process.
We Are Caring – first recruiter worldwide to gain IOM IRIS certification
The very first recruitment agency to be certified as ethical by the International Organisation for Migration is none other than Singapore recruiter We Are Caring. Fantastic. Congratulations to the team there.
The sad rabbit
In January 2023, some migrant workers will enjoy a three-day stretch of holidays, on account of Chinese New Year. There will be many who will not.
Job search: a clash of operating systems
We heard that two years ago, a worker was penalised for being involved with recruitment, though he protested his innocence. This tiny tale tells us a a much bigger story.
Hanging plastic sheets is a matter fraught with “operational complexities”
The government announced new rules to improve safety and welfare for workers carried on the backs of lorries. We couldn't find anything meaningful among the new measures.
MOM’s domestic worker rest day guide – permissive mush
MOM's published a Guide for employers regarding the mandatory rest day for domestic workers that cannot be bought back. The new rule takes effect on 1 Jan 2023.
How Singapore abets forced labour
Six worker cases illustrate how Singapore's work permit system constrains the freedom of workers to refuse a job, putting them at risk of having to serve an employer against their will.
The long lockdown, part 3: The forbidden photocopy shop
Through her two months with us, our intern spoke with many workers complaining about being confined in their dorms. She shares her reflections here.
Segmentation by nationality in Singapore’s construction industry – a comparison of Thais and Bangladeshis
Singapore's construction labour force is characterised by a noticeable stratification by nationality. A study by a former TWC2 volunteer throws light on one reason why.