In light of growing concerns over worker protection and wage disparities in Middle Eastern countries, the Government is considering the reintroduction of minimum wage policy for Sri Lankan migrant workers.
Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath responded to questions raised in Parliament over critical issues surrounding the welfare and wages of Sri Lankan migrant workers in the Middle East, where over 1.3 million Sri Lankans are currently employed.
The move comes as officials seek to ensure fair compensation and improved working conditions for overseas employees amid ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties in the region.
Responding to questions about wage standards and legal protections under Standing Order 27(2), Herath said that the Ministry is reviewing the possibility of reintroducing a mandatory minimum wage policy for migrant workers under the 2023-2027 National Policy and Action Plan on Migration for Employment.
