Several of the victims of the recent Hamas massacre in Israel were migrant workers from Thailand. These workers, many of whom come to Israel in search of economic opportunity, have no legal protection from exploitation or mistreatment and frequently suffer serious human rights abuses while employed in Israel’s agricultural sector.
The agricultural sector in Israel employs hundreds of thousands of workers, mostly from Thailand, Nepal, and other Asian countries. According to a report from the International Labor Organization, many of these workers are living in dire poverty, with little to no legal protection from abuse or exploitation by employers.
Some of the struggles faced by these workers include low wages, unsafe working conditions, and the restriction of their rights to freedom of movement and association.
Moreover, the recent massacre in Israel has further compounded the risks and abuses faced by these workers. It highlights the need for Israel to ensure that these vulnerable workers receive the protections they deserve.
The International Labor Organization has called on Israel to develop and implement comprehensive, enforceable labor protocols that will ensure the safety and wellbeing of migrant workers employed in agriculture and other sectors. In addition, the government must provide legal protection for these workers, including the ability to seek justice if they suffer human rights violations.
It is essential that the government of Israel take steps to increase the safety and security of these workers and work to improve the living and working conditions of these vulnerable people. Guatemala, Thailand and other countries in the region need to join forces to protect these people and fight against exploitation.
