Employment agents, agent fees
15
09, 2020
Fickle fortunes
Nahid's first job turned out relatively well, but he hadn't gone home to see his family in five years. So he resigned and, soon after, had to look for another job.
7
09, 2020
Where was your illegal recruiter? “In Singapore,” say Kamrul and Majumder
Kamrul and Majumder share something important: both their illegal recruiters were based here in Singapore. In Majumder's case, an additional payment was demanded by someone in the company.
7
08, 2020
Loan amount goes up, up and away
Shafiqul borrowed 200,000 taka from a bank to finance his recruitment cost. He now owes 250,000.
2
08, 2020
Kibria and Selim held hostage by Singapore’s underground economy
Selim and Kibria, not paid for their previous jobs, are looking for new ones. They talk about inescapable demands for money from agents, supervisors and bosses.
29
07, 2020
Boss wanted to deduct $500 for one day’s absence
Sharif wasn't feeling well and wanted to rest in his room rather than go to work. As many employers of migrant workers do, a fine was to be imposed for absence.
27
07, 2020
Recruitment reform — what needs to be done
A short explainer about how corrupted the recruitment system has become for migrant workers and the two key measures needed to reform the eco-system.
24
07, 2020
A precarious life: 4 years, 5 jobs
Sharif has had five jobs in Singapore over four years. Has work migration been a path to a better life for this young father and his family?
18
07, 2020
“Have you got the $2,000 ready for me?”
$2,000 is cheap as far as recruiters' fees go, but just as easily lost. Razzak's story is unfortunately as common as dirty money in the migrant labour market.
10
07, 2020
Sudeb climbs the ladder of life
Sudeb recounts the many jobs he's had -- most ending in disappointment. He's been laid off, deceived, cheated of wages and now, injured. But he has fortitude.
30
06, 2020
No migrant worker expects an iron rice bowl, but much more can be done for their financial security
It's too simplistic to speak in terms of iron-clad job security, but a lot more can be done to help migrant workers with career longevity and financial security. Start with recruitment costs.