28 million people are in situations of forced labour around the world. Migrant workers are three times more likely to be in forced labour than non-migrants.
Over 1 million Sri Lankans worked overseas in 2022. Many people are tricked into taking jobs different to what they thought.
This can look like not getting the pay you are promised and not being able to leave your situation because of debt, threats, or visas where you cannot change employers.
It’s important to remember all workers have the right to be treated fairly, with dignity and respect.
Make sure you take the time to learn your rights and how to make a complaint.
If you would like to make a report, please call the National Anti–Human Trafficking Task Force Hotline on 076 844 7700.
If you are looking for the right help for your situation, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Sri Lanka has a hotline you can call on 0766 588 688. You can also call this number for advice about counter-trafficking.
The Sri Lanka Bureau for Foreign Employment (SLBFE) has information to help you learn more about safe migration.
Know your rights before you go overseas. Migration can be a life-changing experience, but it’s important to make sure it changes your life for the better.