On October 3, 2024, the Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Union (CETU) and the Ethiopian Overseas Employment Agencies Federation (EOEAF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marking a step toward protecting the rights of Ethiopian migrant workers. This collaboration is set to enhance fair recruitment practices and establish mechanisms that prioritise the well-being and safety of workers throughout their migration cycle. 

The MoU underscores the shared commitment of both organizations to promote transparent and fair recruitment processes. Recognising the vulnerabilities migrant workers face, CETU and EOEAF have agreed to establish a Migrant Recruitment Advisory Committee. This body will serve as a cornerstone for promoting fair recruitment practices, aligning with the General principles and operational guidelines for fair recruitment and Definition of recruitment fees and related costs and Private Employment Agencies Convention, 1997 (No. 181)

The Advisory Committee will focus on safeguarding the rights of migrant workers at every stage of their journey, from recruitment in Ethiopia to placement in destination countries and eventual return. It will promote the effective management of recruitment and placement process as per the EOEAF code of conduct, which ensures its adherence to international standards and the General principles and operational guidelines for fair recruitment and Definition of recruitment fees and related costs. The committee will also advocate for policies and legislation that protect migrant workers, emphasizing the ratification of labour migration related convention for fair and safe migration pathways.

CETU and EOEAF will work together to provide support to migrant workers. This includes the development of training programs, orientation materials, and resources that equip workers with knowledge about their rights and the risks of unethical recruitment. Migrant workers will also benefit from structured support services, feedback mechanisms, and legal assistance in cases of rights violations. Through partnerships with government agencies and civil society organizations, the committee aims to foster a collaborative approach to tackling the challenges of labour migration.

One of the immediate priorities outlined in the MoU is the sensitization of stakeholders. CETU and EOEAF will conduct outreach and capacity-building sessions to familiarise trade unionists, recruitment agencies, and migrant workers with the principles of fair recruitment. A joint awareness campaign will also promote the use of the www.recruitmentadvisor.org platform, enabling migrant workers to share reviews of their recruitment experiences and hold agencies accountable.

The governance framework of the MoU ensures shared responsibilities and accountability. While CETU will lead the operationalization of the Advisory Committee, EOEAF will actively contribute by mobilising its members and facilitating the sharing of information. Both organizations have pledged to provide financial and logistical support for the committee’s operations, reinforcing their commitment to this vital initiative.