Many migrant workers in Lebanon now face conditions that greatly increase their risk of entering forced or bonded labour, the brief warns. These include a reduction or non-payment of wages, job termination without the ability to return home, an increased workload, reduced physical mobility, an inability to contact friends and family, and an inability to afford hygiene products and a healthy diet. For some of these workers, it remains unclear whether they will be able to receive treatment if they should become ill with COVID-19.

The brief recommends practical actions for employers to take to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of migrant workers, in line with the principles of integrity, gender equality and respect for diversity, all of which contribute to peace, social justice and stability in societies.