Human Rights Commission of the Maldives urged to protect and promote the rights of expatriates working in Maldives.
In a statement released in commemoration of International Migrants' Day, HRCM has called upon the Maldivian society to be more cautious of the trafficking issues of foreign expatriates, to bring the culprits in front of justice and to give traffickers the maximum punishment within the Constitution.
Stressing that expatriates are an important part of the Maldivian society, HRCM also urged to give them respect while communicating with them.
“It is utmost important for NGO’s and media to shed light on the rights of expatriates, promote a culture of respect towards them and prevent actions which hinders their rights,” said HRCM.
Furthermore, HRCM noted some common complaints reported to the commission which includes forced labour without pay, and threatening and holding back their passports and legal documents.
HRCM also underlined that the Maldives has been listed in tier two of USA State Department’s Human Trafficking Watch list due to increase of inhumane activities faced by the expatriates.