An Appraisal of the Practice of Ethiopian Protection Mechanisms Pertaining to Migrant Workers: The Case of Ethiopian Migrant Workers to Saudi Arabia
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Date
2015-04
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This case study aimed at examining the Ethiopian human rights protection systems pertaining to
migrant workers to Saudi Arabia at the three phases of the migratory stages: before departure,
at Saudi Arabia and during repatriation. For such ends, the study utilized qualitative research
design. Both secondary and primary sources of data were employed in conducting this study.
The primary data were gathered using in-depth interviews with concerned government officials
and experts, representatives of non-governmental organizations and Private Employment
Agencies, Saudi Returnees and appropriate key informants. Accordingly, in total 31 individuals
were interviewed in Addis Ababa. Two focus group discussions were also conducted with Saudi
returnees. Overall, the finding of the study shows, that the Ethiopian government has some
efforts in the regulation of labor migration to Saudi and establish legislative and institutional
frameworks to that effect. It was, however, revealed that the legal and policy frame works were
incomprehensive and insufficient. It was also found that the government preventive
interventions were inadequate to avert practices and gaps that give rise to human rights
violations and abuses at all stages of the migratory processes. The government protection
efforts by providing support and reliefs to victims and averting the risks of secondary
victimizations were insufficient. The government rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives
remain in vain to bring practical solutions. The involvement of International and Local NGOs
were minimal and lack of coordination with governmental organizations in the prevention and
protection efforts.
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Keywords
human rights protection,migrant workers to Saudi Arabia,Migrant Workers