Precarious Labour: Bangladeshi construction workers in Singapore

Abstract

While the construction industry provides an important source of employment globally, particularly amongst low-income and low-skilled migrants from rural areas, it is arguably one of the most precarious forms of work. This policy brief summarises findings from a research study that examines the pre-departure and employment experiences of Bangladeshi migrants working in Singapore's construction industry, with a focus on areas of risk and vulnerability that impact the outcomes of their migration experiences. Key issues and challenges include: migrant indebtedness stemming from exorbitant pre-departure fees; low wages; workers' weak bargaining power in the workplace; and lapses in workplace safety enforcement. The brief concludes with recommendations for reducing the costs of migration, whilst increasing the protection of migrant construction workers in vulnerable situations