Human Rights in Jordan & Lebanon's Construction Sector
Background
Since its start in 2011, the Syrian conflict has generated over 5.6 million refugees in what is known as the worst refugee crisis since WWII. This has put tremendous pressure on existing infrastructure in Jordan and Lebanon, and created a large wave of job seekers willing to work in dire situations to provide for themselves and their families. Local markets were not capable of absorbing the sudden demand for jobs, resulting in increased work informality, a race to the bottom with regards to human and labour rights, and widespread abuse of all aspects of human rights, particularly those of migrant workers and refugees. Reports from national and international NGOs and observatories continue to highlight worker abuse and the grave infringement of workers’ rights. However, the significant contribution of the donor governments and IFIs in financing construction projects can be leveraged to safeguard migrants and refugees.
Worker Testimonies
