Migrant well-being and undocumented status in South Korea: a cross-sectional assessment of physical, psychological, social well-being, and health behaviors

This study explored how perceived stress and other common characteristics affected the alcohol consumption of the Filipino migrant workers in South Korea. 201 Filipino migrant workers (78.1% male, 21.9% female) completed the questionnaire containing the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) for measuring perceived stress and Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-C (AUDIT-C) for measuring hazardous drinking.  Pearson’s correlation, regression analysis, T-test and ANOVA were used for statistical analysis. The results revealed that perceived stress was significantly correlated with alcohol consumption among undocumented migrant workers but not with their documented counterparts. Perceived stress also was found to have predicted alcohol consumption among the undocumented migrant workers. Significantly, documented migrant workers have lower levels of perceived stress and alcohol consumption compared to the undocumented migrant workers.

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has exposed various health risks and inequities experienced by international migrant workers. The number of migrant workers in the Republic of Korea (ROK) is rapidly growing and is expected to continue growing. Health related research on migrant workers in ROK is limited, especially among undocumented migrant workers who were more vulnerable to the pandemic. This study aims to examine the experiences of migrant workers and their knowledge and awareness of treatment and immigration policies during the pandemic.MethodsWe used data from the International Migrant Workers’ COVID-19 Health Literacy and Access to Medical Care project, a cross-sectional survey conducted with international migrant workers residing in ROK in 2021 (n = 537). Descriptive statistics and multivariable regression models were employed to understand different demographic, occupational, and immigration factors affecting migrant workers’ knowledge and awareness of treatment and immigration policies.ResultsUndocumented migrant workers had a longer length of residence in ROK and earned less compared to workers with work visa status. None of the undocumented migrant workers had access to health insurance since they were ineligible to enroll in the national health insurance scheme. In the early days of the pandemic, most undocumented migrant workers experienced a decrease in their average income. After adjusting for demographic differences and language proficiency, undocumented migrant workers (AOR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.78) were less likely to be aware of the policy allowing foreigners, including undocumented individuals, to access COVID-19 testing and treatment without the risk of deportation. Workers with a longer length of residence (AOR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.53) were more likely to be aware of this policy.ConclusionUndocumented migrant workers were often less informed about COVID-19 policies. While most of the survey respondents were knowledgeable about governmental policies regarding COVID-19 treatment and immigration, our results reveal multiple occupational and health insurance vulnerabilities of undocumented migrant workers living in ROK. More attention is needed to understand healthcare service barriers and how to provide adequate resources for this vulnerable population.

Mobilizing public opinion for/against foreign labor policies in Korea, 1995–2005: NGOs, trade unions, and employers’ associations in contested terrain

This chapter summarizes Mexico's questions concerning de jure discrimination prejudicial to labor rights of undocumented migrant workers. It then analyzes leading cases of de jure discrimination in U.S. domestic remedies for undocumented migrant workers- Sure-Tan v. National Labor Relations Board and Hoffman -as well as the intervening Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. The chapter then considers the state of applicable international law prior to the Court's Advisory Opinion: (1) Fundamental international labor rights of all workers, including undocumented workers. (2) Treaties specifically protecting undocumented workers, but only in a relatively few states parties. (3) Whether discrimination against migrant workers, based on their undocumented status, was limited by international norms of equality and non-discrimination. (4) Whether denial of certain remedies for undocumented workers violated their internationally protected rights. (5) The progressive development of the internationally protected rights of migrant workers. (6) Whether norms of equality and non-discrimination are jus cogens . Keywords: court's advisory opinion; de jure discrimination; international law; labor rights; Mexico; non-discrimination; undocumented migrant workers

With its offer of competitive compensation and attractive employment permit system (EPS), South Korea has recently experienced an influx of migrant workers. There has been a concomitant rise in the concerns about the health and safety of migrant (especially undocumented) workers as well. The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence of work-related health and safety problems among Filipino migrant workers and determine the relationship between migration status and occupational health and safety (OHS) problems. We conducted a survey of 116 Filipino migrant workers, both legal and undocumented. We utilized the Korean Occupational Stress Scale (KOSS), Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and a validated health and safety questionnaire to assess the various forms of occupational health problems they face. A focus group discussion (FGD) was also conducted to cross-validate information from the questionnaire. Descriptive data were presented in percentages, mean, and standard deviation (SD). Chi-squares tests and logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the degree of association between variables (P < 0.05). Among the eight subscales of KOSS, inadequate social support (2.48), organizational injustice (2.57), and lack of reward (2.52) were experienced by workers. There was a 44.83% prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) with the arm/elbow having the highest rate, followed by the shoulder and low back regions. Inadequate social support and discomfort in organizational climate and overall MSDs prevalence showed significant relationships with migration status (P < 0.05). A significant relationship between migration status and some of the OHS problems faced by Filipino migrant workers in Korea was observed. In this study, undocumented workers were seen to be more vulnerable to stressors as compared to those employed legally.

ObjectiveTo summarise the evidence on health and well-being of Nepalese migrant workers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Malaysia.DesignSystematic review.Data sourcesEMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus and Global Health databases.Eligibility criteriaStudies...

Migrant workers’ recruitment and travelling from Indonesia to Tawau (Sabah), Malaysia is a serious matter, which has not been thoroughly assessed especially the role or help of local employers in Sabah and the (un)secrete routes they use to bring the undocumented migrant workers to Sabah. This article is based on the Indonesia Labour Migration to Sabah (ILMS) Survey (in Syed Abdul Razak [2010]) conducted in 2009 and 2010, in which 896 migrant workers (both documented and undocumented) were interviewed. Also, informal interviews were conducted with employers, intermediaries and the officials in Malaysia and Indonesia. The article found that mandors and local brokers/village sponsors played an important role in the recruitment process of migrant workers. Mandors and local brokers (could be the village sponsors) worked within the social networks; they formerly linked employers with prospective migrant workers; while the brokers linked new migrants to institutional networks that operated through legal and unauthorised channels. However, the real demand or space for undocumented migrant workers was created from Sabah. The employers played an important role to sustain the problem of undocumented migrant workers. The study also found various factors, which facilitated migrant workers’ movement to Sabah that included improvements in water transport and telecommunication systems, the long-established, familiar networks, and the availability of groups which provided fake documents. There was more inclination to use informal channels because of the cost and procedures, whereas the migrant workers willing to take any kind and level of risk in search of livelihoods. The article concludes that for migrant workers, there was no clear distinction between legal and undocumented recruitment because the same people (mandors) arranged both things for them, but the real pull or demand came from the local people in Sabah. Keywords: migrant workers, recruitment, travelling, illegal, Tawau, Indonesia

The safeguarding of fundamental rights for undocumented migrant workers represents a critical challenge that necessitates immediate attention. This article addresses the oversight within the human rights discourse regarding the fundamental rights of undocumented migrant workers. Through empirical normative research, incorporating a comprehensive review of normative literature, this study critically examines the regulations affecting migrant workers through the lens of human rights. It identifies a significant correlation between the lack of protective guarantees for undocumented migrant workers and the various cases and consequences that ensue. From a human rights perspective, regulations prioritize equality before the law, protection, and anti-discrimination. This stance contrasts with existing laws that govern Indonesian migrant workers, wherein protection is exclusively extended to those legally recognized. Such exclusivity denies undocumented migrant workers the assurance of their fundamental rights. Arguably, the provision of basic rights and protections should be indiscriminately extended to all migrant workers, irrespective of their legal status. While the specifics of migrant worker placement can still be regulated concerning requirements, processes, involved parties, and responsibilities, these regulations must not infringe upon the fundamental human rights of individuals. Consequently, this paper advocates for a thorough evaluation of current legislation with respect to its content, the comprehension of involved stakeholders, and the practical implementation of regulations concerning the management of migrant workers.

Background: The COVID-19 outbreak poses challenges to people across the world and puts marginalized populations in an even more precarious position Migrant workers, with their marginal socio-legal status in host countries, are especially vulnerable during the pandemic The wellbeing of migrant workers, specifically low-wage laborers, is greatly compromised Objectives: This study aims to systematically review the existing literature on how epidemic infectious diseases affect the wellbeing of migrant workers and what are the interventions to improve their wellbeing Method: Following the PRISMA guideline, studies on migrant workers’ wellbeing or interventions to improve wellbeing during five major epidemic infectious diseases (i e , COVID-19, SARS, Ebola, H1N1, MERS) were searched Eleven electronic databases were used: Cochrane Library, WHO Global Research COVID-19 database, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL Plus, ERIC, MEDLINE, Social Index, PubMed, ProQuest, Social Care Online and EPPI-Mapper In total, 17 articles that met the criteria were included An assessment guide was developed to examine the quality of the studies Results: Overall, the studies consistently show that major epidemic outbreaks negatively affect the physical, financial, psychological and social wellbeing of migrant workers Migrant workers face a wide range of challenges such as risks of contagion, job insecurity, psychological distress, and discrimination Factors associated with migrant workers’ marginal socio-economic status were attributed to these challenges Several interventions were discussed including increased access to vaccinations, health screening at the border, promotion of hygiene strategies, and financial assistance in medical fees Discussion: The findings highlight the need for a greater public awareness and stronger response to migrant workers’ wellbeing during an epidemic outbreak Implications to practice and research were discussed This review calls for more open-access data to advance research on migrant workers, and evidence-based interventions with a long-term effect © 2020, International Journal of Wellbeing Charitable Trust All rights reserved

불법파견의 심각성은 익히 잘 알려져 있으나, 특히 미등록 이주노동자들에 대한 불법파견은 더욱더 광범위한 위험회피수단으로 악용되고 있다. 사용사업주는 퇴직금 미지급, 산업재해 발생에 따른 산재보험료 인상 위험을 파견사업주에 떠넘길 수 있는데, 미등록 이주노동자의 경우 이에 더해 출입국사무소 단속 시의 위험까지도 파견사업주에 전가하고 있다. 이러한 간접고용으로 인하여 실제로 노동력을 제공받아 이익을 누리는 사용사업주에게 그에 합당한 책임을 부과하는 제도가 구축되어 있지 않다. 피해를 본 미등록 이주노동자는 실제로 자신에게 업무 지시한 사용사업주 대신 영세한 파견사업주를 상대로 해야 하므로 자신의 권리를 제대로 보호받기 곤란한 경우들이 많다. 이러한 폐해를 막기 위해서는 사회 전반에 퍼져있는 간접고용을 직접고용으로 전환하도록 하고 불법파견을 철저히 단속해야 할 것이다. 미등록 이주노동자의 가장 기본적인 권리인 퇴직금마저 주지 않으려는 사업주들의 얄팍한 행동을 묵과해서는 안 될 것이다. 노동자는 국경, 민족 구분이 없듯이 미등록 이주노동자에 대한 불법파견을 막는 것이 결국 내국인 노동자들의 노동인권도 향상시키는 일이 될 것임을 믿어 의심치 않는다.The seriousness of illegal dispatch is well known. In particular, illegal dispatch of undocumented migrant workers has been abused by employers as a further extensive means to avoid risks; employers can transfer the risk of a raise in industrial accident compensation insurance premium rate due to unpaid severance pay and industrial accidents to dispatching companies. Furthermore, even the risk of crackdown on undocumented migrant workers by the immigration office is passed onto dispatching companies. No system has been established to impose reasonable responsibilities on the employers, who benefit from indirect employment. In many cases, undocumented migrant workers’ rights are hardly protected, as those workers have to deal with small dispatching companies instead of the employers who gave them work orders. In order to stop the abuse, it is necessary to convert indirect employment spread across the entire society into direct employment and strictly regulate illegal dispatch of workers. We should not tolerate employers’ shallow conduct of ignoring severance pay, which is the most essential right of undocumented migrant workers. There is no doubt that, as there is no border or ethnicity among laborers, preventing illegal dispatch of undocumented migrant workers will eventually improve the labor rights of domestic workers as well.

This article considers recent legal developments on undocumented migrant workers, finds the acceptance of international legal standards unsatisfactory and argues that the private law rights derived from the “semi-legal” employment contract between the employer and the undocumented migrant worker generates a solid base for significant legal claims. It further monitors the promotion of the position of the undocumented migrant workers under recent EU law and calls for a refocusing on the employment contract in the reading of a relevant EC Directive, with a particular emphasis on the issue of access to justice for the migrant workers. The increased number of undocumented migrants who leave their countries of origin for reasons outside the scope of the asylum procedure, as well as the circumstances under which this migration is undertaken and the working conditions of these individuals in the host countries, have brought about legal activities from governments and institutions such as the EU. The aim has in general been to establish sanctions against employers of undocumented migrant workers, but a shift towards a compensatory, employee protective, attitude has recently emerged, both in EU legislation and in a broader perspective in US case law. The article concludes that such a development must be massively supported in relation to access to justice in order to fulfill the ambition. The poor legal position of the undocumented migrant workers is significantly connected to issues of legal representation, trade union participation and the threat of repatriation.

Perceived mental health, wellbeing and associated factors among Nepali male migrant and non-migrant workers: A qualitative study

Subjective assessments of well-being are becoming routine indicators, considering that material resources are insufficient to capture people’s satisfaction with life. Examining the unique situation of undocumented migrant workers, driven by aspirations for a better life but constrained by their limited rights in the country of destination, we assess their satisfaction with life and the factors that matter in their evaluations. Data were collected in Geneva (Switzerland), in a study comparing those who have just received a residency permit or about to obtaining it after submitting a regularization request (n = 195) with those who were still undocumented and/or had not submitted a regularization request at the time of our study (n = 231). In addition, comparisons were made with a sample of regular local residents (n = 175). Data obtained through standardized questionnaires include a range of material and non-material determinants, some unique to migrants and others common to the three populations. Satisfaction with life is significantly lower among undocumented migrant workers while those who are regularized and regular local residents report similar levels of well-being. Social participation, self-reported health and discrimination are associated to satisfaction with life among undocumented migrant workers. Among those being regularized, having been longer in the country of destination is associated with lower well-being. Among regular local residents, the only significant factor for a better satisfaction with life is having a partner. Material determinants, while distributed in vastly different levels, do not influence satisfaction with life. Despite the high satisfaction expressed by those who have recently been regularized, policy intervention still have to pay attention to their persisting difficult socioeconomic circumstances amidst a context of overall affluence.

Health and wellbeing of Nepalese migrant workers in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: A mixed-methods study

This study examines the relationship beween employment and psychosocial working conditions and well-being of native and migrant workers in the working population of Spain. Data from the 7th Spanish Survey of Working Conditions was used to conduct a confirmatory factor analysis (n = 8508) to identify the main latent variables that influenced well-being. Using structural equation modeling and multivariate analysis, we found different patterns and perceptions of well-being and working conditions in these two groups. We discuss the reasons for these differences and suggest directions for further research in this area.