Articles > Facts, Research, Analysis
The long lockdown, part 1: Timeline
Over 300,000 migrant workers were locked down in their dormitories in April 2020. They would not be allowed to go out for leisure until 17 months later, when a tiny trickle were allowed out.
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.
Job restrictions, dorm restrictions, tasteless food – migrant workers’ priority concerns
Many Singaporeans, even though well meaning, think that migrant worker issues would be solved if only we "integrated" them better into Singapore society. Is that really a priority for migrant workers themselves?
About 36,000 construction workers came into Singapore in November and December 2021
Some updates to keep up with the rapidly evolving situation regarding manpower shortages in the construction industry.
Difficulties getting aboard the SCAL retention scheme
A review of cases related to the SCAL retention scheme identified the main obstacles workers faced in getting onto the scheme. These obstacles meant more work at MOM and reduced effectiveness of the scheme.
Blacklisted: Imagined fears or unspoken reality?
Many low-wage migrant workers fear that lodging any complaint with the authorities may lead to their being blacklisted. Is this real or imagined? Our intern investigates.
No-consent period for job transfers “adjusted”, in effect shrunk
MOM's "adjustment" of the no-consent period makes it contingent upon employers giving consent. Circular logic?
TWC2 and HOME submit a compliance report on Singapore for ICERD
Singapore's migrant labour management flow along lines that look like ethnic discrimination. Workers in certain sectors are treated differently from those in other sectors, but sectors are only open to certain nationalities.
At last, a (temporary) scheme to retain construction workers — more dirigiste allocation than real choice
MOM announced a temporary retention scheme to keep laid-off construction workers in Singapore. Six workers kept us informed of their experience while waiting for new jobs.
On average, Indian and Bangladeshi migrant workers stay 4.2 years with the same employer, our survey finds
Shockingly, staring salaries, adjusted for inflation, have steadily declined over twenty years.