• The National Policy and Action Plan on Migration for Employment in Sri Lanka (2023-2027) represents a significant step forward in the government’s approach to labour migration

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama

While criticizing the individuals who claim to be leaders of Sri Lanka but suggest developing policies for migrant workers without any knowledge of the existing policies, Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said the true leaders should be aware of the existing policies as well as those currently under development.
While expressing his views during the launch of the Sri Lanka Migration Employment Blueprint at the Kingsbury Hotel, he said the existing policies were launched in 2008, revised in 2015, and reviewed in 2023.

The National Policy and Action Plan on Migration for Employment in Sri Lanka (2023-2027) represents a significant step forward in the government’s approach to labour migration. It originates from the 2008 National Labour Migration Policy (NLMP), which received support from various stakeholders, both governmental and non-governmental, working together to address the needs and challenges of migrant workers during their overseas employment.

Addressing the gathering, the minister noted that Sri Lankan migrant workers have supported the country in overcoming the recent economic crisis by sending remittances through banks. He expressed his commitment to formulating new policies aimed at providing much-needed facilities to migrant workers.

The Minister pointed out that $4.3 billion was received in the first nine months of this year, and foreign remittances from Sri Lankans living abroad have surged by 75% compared to the previous year.

“Our migrant workers have immensely contributed to boosting our foreign reserves over the past year and a half. I would like to express my gratitude for their commitment to rebuilding our economy. I have introduced a new loan scheme for migrant workers, which, unfortunately, has yet to be fully implemented due to several bureaucratic challenges,” he added.
Regarding the recent government initiative to encourage Sri Lankans abroad to send remittances through banks, the minister pointed out that an import licensing system was introduced for electric vehicles.