In a notable development within the labor sector, Cambodia is actively exploring opportunities for its migrant workforce in Israel. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to diversify the destinations for Cambodian overseas workers. Israel, known for its reliance on migrant labor to bolster its economy, emerges as a potential new partner in this endeavor.
The groundwork for this potential collaboration was laid during a recent meeting between Heng Sour, Cambodia’s Minister of Labour and Vocational Training, and Orna Sagiv, the Israeli Ambassador to Cambodia. The meeting, hosted at the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT), marked a significant step towards mutual cooperation in the labor sector. Both representatives recognized the potential economic benefits for their respective nations through such an alliance.
During the meeting, a press release from the MLVT revealed that the conversation also touched upon the current crisis in Gaza. The two sides acknowledged the strong bilateral relations between Cambodia and Israel and expressed a mutual interest in exploring labor cooperation further.
Minister Heng Sour also highlighted existing labor cooperation between Cambodia and other Asian countries, such as the Republic of Korea and Japan. This reference served to underscore Cambodia’s commitment and successful track record in establishing productive overseas labor partnerships.
In recent times, Cambodia has made significant strides in arranging job placements for its migrant workers globally. According to recent MLVT statistics, over 1.3 million Cambodian migrant workers, including 552,851 women, secured employment abroad last year. The majority of these workers are employed in Thailand, with others distributed across countries like South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Saudi Arabia.
Israel’s labor market is currently facing a severe shortage, primarily due to restrictions on Palestinian workers who traditionally filled many roles, especially in the construction sector. This situation, as reported by The Washington Post, has led Israel to seek labor solutions from other nations, including India, which is reportedly in talks to send a significant number of workers to Israel.
Amid these developments, there have been reports of a proposed pilot program by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow vetted Palestinians to return to work in Israel. This proposal has faced opposition within Netanyahu’s own political party.
Simultaneously, the Cambodian MLVT is taking proactive steps to ensure that Cambodian migrant workers are well-supported and protected in their host countries. These measures include strict inspection of private recruitment agencies, ensuring transparency and worker protection, and enhanced support through Cambodian embassies abroad.
The MLVT has reported successful interventions in thousands of cases related to issues affecting Cambodian migrant workers from 2018 to 2022. These efforts highlight Cambodia’s commitment to the welfare of its overseas workforce and its adaptability in navigating the shifting global labor landscape.
As Cambodia and Israel continue their discussions, the potential for a fruitful labor relationship looms on the horizon, promising new opportunities for Cambodian workers and contributing to the economic growth of both nations.
Source: Khmer Times
