Protecting the rights of migrant workers in irregular situations 

International migration has become an integral part of the global economy. Together with their families, migrant workers represent most of the international migrants living outside their country of origin today. Many people continue to move without access to regular migration options. The ways through which migrants may end up in irregular situation are many.  

The ILO’s Governing Body has asked the Office to develop a compendium  of practices, “Protecting the rights of migrant workers in irregular situations and addressing irregular labour migration”, on reducing irregular labour migration and promoting the rights of migrant workers in an irregular situation.  

Compendium presents situations that can lead migrant workers into irregularity, the rights of migrant workers in irregular situations, and the relevant international standards, good practice and guidance. It also highlights State laws and policies, as well as practices within and among countries, often adopted in consultation with workers’ and employer’s organizations, that can help prevent irregular labour migration in abusive conditions, and facilitate respect and promotion of the human rights of all migrant workers, regardless of status.  

The Compendium is not intended to be exhaustive but is instead a living document that will be regularly updated with new examples and experiences. It seeks to encourage the sharing of good practices by states, social partners, and other actors concerned and to contribute to the attainment of the objectives of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular migration.  

For more details:  //www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/—ed_protect/—protrav/—migrant/documents/publication/wcms_832915.pdf