Promoting and Protecting the Rights of Migrant Workers The Role of National Human Rights Institutions Some NHRIs have developed an ongoing relationship of information-exchange and practical support through formal Memoranda of Understanding. In other instances, cooperation between NHRIs can relate to a specific event or issue, such as sharing information in relation to suspected cases of human trafficking. CASE STUDY Jordan is a destination country for migrant workers from different parts of the Asia Pacific region, including Indonesia and the Philippines. In 2009, the Jordan National Centre for Human Rights entered into separate Memoranda of Understanding with the National Human Rights Commission of Indonesia and with the Philippines Commission on Human Rights. The MoUs commit the respective institutions to conduct “mutual projects that enhance the respect of human rights in both countries”, prioritising cooperation on migrant workers and domestic workers. Specifically, the MoUs set out the objective of “mitigating, if not completely eradicating, violations against the rights of workers and to find the means to eliminate the infringements on human rights.” Some of the strategies outlined in the agreements include: • disseminating information on labour and migrant workers’ rights • exchanging studies, education and information materials produced by both NHRIs, as well sharing expertise in the development of education programmes • engaging the services and cooperation of all relevant foreign affairs ministries/departments and embassies, where needed, to protect and promote the rights of migrants and domestic workers. 6. PROMOTING INTER-AGENCY COORDINATION AMONG GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS During their journey from one country to another, settling in and taking up employment, migrant workers and members of their families will come into contact with a broad range of government departments and other agencies of the State. They may, for example, engage with officials from departments of immigration, labour, social welfare, education, housing and heath. Undocumented migrants and migrants in an irregular situation may also have contact with police, detaining authorities and the justice system. In order to better promote and protect the rights of migrant workers, NHRIs have noted the importance of establishing clear lines of communication between relevant government agencies so that policies can be developed and services delivered in a more coordinated and effective manner. NHRIs can support this process by: • establishing a regular dialogue with relevant government departments and other agencies of the State • holding conferences and other forums that bring together public officials to discuss issues of shared concern and develop policy solutions • advocating for and advising on comprehensive policy approaches and appropriate inter-agency responsibilities. 80 | Chapter 6: Promoting reform of law, policy and practice