National Policy and Action Plan on Migration for Employment debuts

The National Policy and Action Plan on Migration for Employment in Sri Lanka (2023-2027) was launched yesterday by the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment and the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

It represents a significant step forward in the Government’s approach to labour migration. It originates from the 2008 National Labour Migration Policy (NLMP), which received support from various stakeholders, both Governmental and non-Governmental, working together to address the needs and challenges of migrant workers during their overseas employment.

In 2015, recognising the unique concerns of returning migrants, Sri Lanka established a sub policy on Return and Reintegration, providing dedicated support for Sri Lankan citizens returning from overseas employment.

In 2018, recognising the evolving migration landscape, the Government initiated the crucial process of updating the 2008 policy. This process culminated with Cabinet approval on 4 September.

The updated Policy and NAP view labour migration through the lens of “Decent Work,” acknowledging the profound impact of employment quality on the migrant experience. It also emphasises the importance of the three I’s: Investment, Innovation, and Inclusion, with the goal of establishing a new labour migration paradigm in Sri Lanka.

Addressing the launch Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said that Sri Lankan migrant workers have supported the country in overcoming the recent economic crisis by sending remittances through banks. He expressed his commitment to formulating new policies aimed at providing much-needed facilities to migrant workers.

“Celebrating a milestone in our nation’s journey, the ‘National Policy and Action Plan on Migration for Employment Sri Lanka 2023 – 2027’ symbolises our unwavering commitment to harnessing the potential of our overseas workforce. By focusing on Investment, Innovation, and Inclusion, we envision a future where migration for employment isn’t just about remittances but a holistic investment in the prosperity and resilience of Sri Lanka. Together, let’s champion the well-being and success of our migrant community, crafting a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow,” Minister said.

He pointed out that $ 4.3 billion was received in the first nine months of this year, and foreign remittances from Sri Lankans living abroad have surged by 75% compared to the previous year.

“Our migrant workers have immensely contributed to boosting our foreign reserves over the past year and a half. I would like to express my gratitude for their commitment to rebuilding our economy. I have introduced a new loan scheme for migrant workers, which, unfortunately, has yet to be fully implemented due to several bureaucratic challenges,” Nanayakkara added.

He noted that in order to honour and recognise the contributions of migrant workers, a special ‘HOPE GATE’ was opened at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake. The Minister went on to say that as a policy maker, he has worked tirelessly to provide the best possible facilities for migrant workers; however, due to bureaucratic challenges, some of the policies have not been fully implemented. Regarding the recent Government initiative to encourage Sri Lankans abroad to send remittances through banks, the Minister pointed out that an import licensing system was introduced for electric vehicles.

“The initiative to provide licenses for importing electric vehicles was conducted with full transparency, and it successfully increased the remittance earnings of the country. Licenses have been issued only to those who have sent remittances to Sri Lanka through legal channels. This initiative is not exempt from import duties and is in line with a cabinet decision aimed at encouraging Sri Lankans abroad to send remittances through legal channels. All imported vehicles are required to pay the full customs duty and other taxes levied by the Customs Department, contributing to state revenue,” Minister Nanayakkara added.