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A mechanism should be established through which migrant workers can report any incidents of harassment, discrimination or other inappropriate behavior by their supervisors, human resources representative or management; and ensure that these reports are treated confidentially. Any and all confirmed cases should be acted upon and remedied.

Necessary steps should be taken to prevent and address discrimination, xenophobia and/or exclusion related to migrant workers.

Employers must continue to respect and safeguard the human and labor rights of migrant workers during the current crisis. They should also observe and comply with all national laws and regulations and collective agreements related to employment and working conditions.

Employers should take additional measures when their workplace and operations are located in remote or isolated locations, and where access to health services and infrastructure is limited. This includes mines (pits), industrial and small-scale agricultural farms and plantations, as well as fishing vessels and transport operators.

Employers should take additional measures when their workplace and operations are located in remote or isolated locations, and where access to health services and infrastructure is limited. This includes mines (pits), industrial and small-scale agricultural farms and plantations, as well as fishing vessels and transport operators.

When workers, including migrant workers, live in accommodation located at the workplace, whether such accommodation is operated or owned by the employer, then it must be ensured that living conditions are safe, hygienic and reflect the current requirements of social distancing.

If your company continues to operate during the pandemic, consider implementing a flexible labor arrangement. Take steps to identify essential and non-essential personnel. In cases where remote work is possible, allow employees to work from home (e.g., telecommuting) or adopt flexible work schedules. The latter is important for all workers, including migrant workers, since with the closures of education and care centers they will have to provide additional care and instruction for their children.

To mitigate common language barriers, employers should ensure that migrant workers have access to interpreters who can provide up-to-date information and support them while accessing medical care. In jurisdictions where local health authorities recommend calling a hotline rather than visiting a hospital or clinic, ensure that migrant workers can communicate well and understand medical professionals using such means.

In the case of migrant workers living at the workstation, employers should ensure that they have free access to Internet services in their dormitories so they can maintain regular contact with their families and loved ones.

Migrant workers may face elevated levels of stress and anxiety related to COVID-19 as a result of being isolated and away from their homes, families and support networks. In addition, they may fear deportation if they lose their jobs and work permits, or if they contract the virus. Employers are strongly encouraged to consider these special vulnerabilities of migrant workers and take the necessary steps to deal with related stress and anxiety.