Rise in migrant workers forced to fight in Russia-Ukraine war

Urgent action is needed to prevent modern slavery in communities affected by conflict and to protect all people seeking safety.

Migrant workers can be coerced through various ways, such as threats of violence, withholding of documents, false promises of employment, and economic manipulation.

Nepalese man Krishna Bahadur Shai, interviewed by ABC News, was promised a better life in Russia before ending up on the frontline of the war in Ukraine instead.

With no legitimate jobs available due to harsh winter conditions, he was forced into a combat role within the Russian military. Wounded and abandoned following violent clashes, Krishna’s experience highlights the risks migrant workers may unknowingly face when travelling for work.

Nepalese men are being tricked into fighting Russia’s war with promises of high pay and fast-tracked citizenship.

Despite Nepal’s condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many Nepalese migrants are driven by economic hardships to seek work there.

The need to earn a livelihood to survive coupled with the lack of legal protections and marginalisation in host countries make migrant workers particularly vulnerable to exploitation.

Migrant workers are reportedly being detained, abused, and coerced to sign Russian military contracts under duress.

The impacts are felt long after returning from war. Once home, migrant workers may face issues such as difficulty in finding employment, stigma, ongoing physical and mental health concerns, as well as challenges with reintegrating into civilian life.

Significant gaps remain in the humanitarian response and peacebuilding and peacekeeping efforts to ensure adequate support for at-risk persons.

Authorities and frontline responders should screen for human trafficking indicators, particularly among migrants within conflict zones.

Increased coordinated action among humanitarian actors, those working in protection, and the anti-slavery sector is essential.