The Right to Work: Empowering Refugees and Upholding Human Rights in Malaysia

In Malaysia, more than 170,000 refugees live in poverty, unable to work, access education, or healthcare due to their lack of legal status. While the country has yet to ratify the 1951 Refugee Convention, granting refugees the right to work could be a powerful step forward. Beyond just providing them with the means to support themselves, it would also help them regain a sense of dignity, agency, and hope for a better future. This right doesn’t equate to permanent residency, but it offers refugees the opportunity to contribute economically while reducing their dependence on humanitarian aid.

Granting the right to work for refugees aligns with fundamental human rights principles, particularly the right to live with dignity. Refugees, often fleeing conflict and persecution, have already lost so much when they arrive in a host country. Giving them the chance to work would not only empower them to rebuild their lives but also allow them to invest in their children's education, which remains out of reach for many today. This opportunity could reduce child labor and provide a sense of stability for families who are otherwise struggling to survive.

Moreover, allowing refugees to join the workforce would benefit the host country as well. Studies suggest that refugees could contribute significantly to Malaysia’s economy, adding billions to the GDP and boosting tax revenue. It would also help curb the informal labor market and reduce exploitation, such as forced labor. In embracing the right to work, Malaysia could demonstrate its commitment to both human rights and economic growth, fostering a more inclusive and just society for everyone.

protest in Malaysia