“The deployment of migrant workers (TKI) in reality is like modern slavery.” Iweng Karsiwen. Indonesian migrant workers in the time of COVID-19.

The costs of being an Indonesian migrant worker during the COVID-19 have only increased yet the discrimination and abuse they often face remains.

Iwenk Karsiwen, chairperson of the Extended Family of Indonesian Migrant Workers, urging the government to provide rapid test COVID-19 free of charge for all. Source: Photo courtesy Iwenk Karsiwen – Cilacap, 2020.

Indonesian migrant workers (TKI) are an important source of foreign exchange for Indonesia. However, often they are victims of exploitation and mistreatment.  Iweng Karsiwen, chairperson of the Extended Family of Indonesian Migrant Workers, explains how COVID-19 has further affected their welfare.

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Iwenk Karsiwen, chairperson of the Extended Family of Indonesian Migrant Workers, campaigning for Labor Rights particularly for the Indonesian Women Workers. Source: Photo courtesy Iwenk Karsiwen - Cilacap 2020.