Migration
Helping Migrants Make Informed Decisions and Prevent Exploitation
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are hotspots for the highest migration of unskilled and blue-collar workers to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The aspiration to improve economic status has, for generations, led many into exploitative conditions. Illegal agents, high visa payments, travel on tourist visas, and a lack of insurance coverage have made these workers vulnerable to modern slavery.
ASK implemented a pilot project, “Building an Ecosystem for Safe Migration to the Gulf Corridor from UP & Bihar,” supported by the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery (GFEMS). This initiative allowed us to engage with migrant families and communities, gain their trust, and collaborate with key stakeholders, including the Protector of Emigrants (PoE), District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), to promote safe migration practices.
The project focused on mobilizing aspiring migrant workers—particularly those in electrical work, construction, and building—who faced risks of exploitation, fraud, and forced labor. Our approach emphasized community mobilization, awareness, and preventive measures to curb illegal migration and safeguard workers’ rights.
One-stop solution for all migration-related queries facilitated by our Vikas Mitras. Watch the video to learn more about our initiative.
Please click here https://youtu.be/LEhA6t9ZCRQ?si=N6lxl6GQdDWRqMRZ
Our Impact
In collaboration with the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery and Norad, the Association for Stimulating Know-How (ASK India) launched a district-wide campaign across nine blocks of Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh. The campaign aims to raise community awareness about safe migration processes, the risks involved, and the conditions leading to forced labor, among other critical issues.
Promoting Safe Migration Practices
- 87 migrants traveled to the Gulf with valid passports, work visas, and job contracts, reporting positive outcomes.
- 2,466 migrants accessed socio-economic government schemes.
- 450 returned tourist visas to agents and refused unsafe travel to the Gulf.
- 2,558 migrants insisted on work visas and contracts, avoiding illegal routes.
Rescue and Reintegration of the Migrant Workers
- 44 forced labour victims were rescued and reintegrated into their communities.
Para Legal Aid to Migrants
- 118 fraud cases were resolved by the PoEs.
- 3,100 Pravasi Mitras emerged as grassroots change agents, addressing the issues of fraud.
- 25 Panchayats created a safety net and started checking the informal agents in their panchayats.
Reducing Distressed Migration
- 2,466 migrants accessed socio-economic government schemes.
- 550 Migrant Households were linked with financial support and initiated self-employment.
