Recruitment Practices of Employment Agencies Recruiting Migrant Workers: A Review Aimed at Improving Recruitment Regulations and Drafting Recruitment Guidelines

Abstract

The exodus of Sri Lankan workers as labour migrants is a phenomenon that is now deeply entrenched into the fabrics of certain segments of society. The remittances brought in by the migrants constitute one of the main avenues of foreign income. Under this scenario, management of the migration procedures to ensure that maximum benefits are accrued by the migrants and their families, becomes of paramount importance. Recruitment practices and procedures play a key role in the migration process. The article reviews the present recruitment practices through both state and private agencies, regulations and processes, and also identifies gaps in the processes that could lead to exploitative practices. Best practices from other labour sending countries are also given.