The Challenges of Migrant Workers in the Maldives During a Pandemic and Efforts Toward Vaccine Equity

Dear Editor

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed serious socio-economic and health challenges in the Maldives. A total of 178 883 cases and 298 deaths were recorded as of April 20, 2022. ¹ The Maldives has the highest proportion of migrant workers in South Asia, and these workers were severely affected. ² They are estimated to be at least 145 000 and they make up about a third of the entire population.^2,3

The Maldives faced criticism for its abuse and treatment of migrant workers during the wake of the pandemic. ² These workers were one of the most vulnerable groups due to existing inequalities.^2,3 The lack of enforcement of labor and anti-human trafficking laws in the country leads to fraudulent recruitment of workers, who are then exposed to unfavorable working and living conditions. ² Many workers were faced with job insecurity, stigmatization, lack of access to health care, exposure to COVID-19, and forceful repatriation.^2,3 These can lead to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. The case is worse for the irregular migrants who have a double burden of the pandemic and their illegal status.

The Maldives took measures to contain the pandemic. They instituted a nationwide lockdown and travel bans, commenced health promotion campaigns, and also offered free isolation and medical care to all infected persons without discrimination. Furthermore, the government initiated a campaign on February 1, 2021, to vaccinate the entire residents regardless of nationality or legal status at no cost. ⁴ On February 24, 2021, the first batch of migrant workers were vaccinated. ⁵ Vaccination efforts have been successful. So far, 383 876 people or 84.72% of the population are fully vaccinated and a further 34.89% have received booster doses. ¹

This action by the Maldives is worth emulating by other countries, especially those with a high number of migrants, as an excellent step toward achieving vaccine equity and ensuring inclusivity. However, there is a need to have a reform to protect the health and rights of migrant workers in the country.