ASNS warns about the situation of more than 100,000 foreign workers in Serbia

The Association of Free and Independent Trade Unions (ASNS) announced that it is closely monitoring the work and living conditions of more than 100,000 foreign workers in Serbia, pointing to numerous irregularities, abuses and violations of labour rights that at times extend into the realm of criminal offences, such as human trafficking.

In the statement issued by ASNS, it is emphasised that the current system favours the employment of foreign workers through tax reliefs and refunds of social security contributions of up to 70 per cent, which makes domestic workers uncompetitive, while the budget and the social security system suffer serious consequences.

ASNS points to the need for the urgent adoption of systemic and transparent policies, as well as the regulation of the employment of foreign workers, including: responsible and committed implementation of the law; amendments to the Personal Income Tax Act, the Contributions Act and the Foreigners Act; precise regulation of the operation of employment agencies and maximum fees; criminal liability for the confiscation of personal documents and the creation of “company ghettos”; and the right of foreign workers to change employers and to minimum accommodation standards.

The union also presented the ASNS Declaration on the status and rights of foreign workers, which proclaims the principles of equality, non-discrimination, dignity at work, the fight against modern “labour slavery”, and inclusiveness.

In order to directly protect foreign workers, ASNS is also planning practical measures, including information desks, brochures in foreign languages, legal assistance, and the promotion of the right to organise in trade unions.

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