More than 100 Bangladeshi and Nepali workers living in wagons in Kişinev inspected

In the capital of Moldova, Kişinev, more than 100 Bangladeshi and Nepali foreign workers, who had been living in converted railway wagons on a business premises for over a year, were inspected by the General Inspectorate for Migration. As a result of the inspection, 101 administrative violation reports were drawn up, and two foreigners were found to be illegally staying in Moldova. According to a statement from the Inspectorate, the inspections were carried out on 1 Nisan and the working conditions and legal status of the workers were examined.

During the inspections, it was observed that the living conditions of the workers were unfit for human dignity and basic hygiene standards were not met. It was noted that the wagons were small and airless, lacking adequate ventilation and heating systems. Additionally, it was determined that most of the workers' work permits had expired or did not exist at all, and that some of their passports were being withheld by the employer. This situation restricts the workers' ability to act of their own free will and makes them vulnerable to exploitation.

Authorities announced that legal action had been initiated against the employer and that the workers had been temporarily placed in a shelter center. The Migration Inspectorate stated that regular inspections would be increased to prevent such situations and that employers would be ensured to comply with the conditions for employing foreign workers. Furthermore, it was stated that the deportation process for the two workers found to be illegal had been initiated.

This incident once again brought to the agenda the difficulties faced by foreign workers in Moldova. Bangladeshi and Nepali workers, especially those employed in the construction and agriculture sectors, frequently fall victim to low wages and poor working conditions. Human rights organizations emphasize that the government needs to develop more effective policies on this issue. In addition, the raising of awareness regarding the legal rights of workers and the expansion of counseling services are being demanded.

In conclusion, this inspection in Kişinev is considered an important step towards improving the living and working conditions of foreign workers. However, more comprehensive legal regulations and international cooperation are required for a fundamental solution to the problem. Moldova is expected to take more decisive steps to protect workers' rights and to strengthen inspection mechanisms to prevent the recurrence of such inhuman conditions.