The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council said a labor recruitment declaration was adopted by ministerial bodies before leaders were asked to consider it, putting worker safeguards on the bloc’s agenda.
In its Nov. 6 statement, the council gave the measure its formal name, the ASEAN Declaration for Fair, Ethical, and Sustainable Recruitment for Empowered Migrant Workers. It listed the declaration as part of a 10-document package sent to ASEAN leaders to consider adopting.
The council said the declaration seeks greater accountability for recruitment agencies and employers. It also seeks to eliminate illegal and unethical recruitment malpractices and protect migrant workers from trafficking and exploitation.
