Asian Migrant Workers in the Gulf Amid Rising Tensions

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Iranian missile and drone attacks, has left millions of Asian migrant workers in the Gulf region grappling with safety concerns and job security. Over 24 million individuals from countries such as India, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka work in the Gulf, contributing significantly to their home economies through remittances. As tensions escalate, many workers are caught between the desire to return home and the necessity of maintaining their employment.

Reports indicate that many migrant workers are choosing to remain in the Gulf despite the risks. For instance, Mary Anne Velasquez de Vera, a Filipino carer, tragically lost her life while assisting her ward during an air raid in Tel Aviv. In Bahrain, Bibin Lal, a plumber, has opted to stay in a basement carpark for safety, stating, “I’ll do my job or someone else will take it.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend among workers who fear losing their jobs and the financial stability they provide to their families back home.

The Philippine government has initiated efforts to repatriate citizens, with 299 Filipinos returning from Dubai as of March 5. However, many remain anxious about their safety and the potential repercussions of leaving their jobs. Anna Santos, a domestic worker in Abu Dhabi, expressed her fears about the escalating conflict and her uncertainty regarding her employer's willingness to allow her to leave.

Governments across Asia are responding to the crisis. The Indian government has reported that approximately 12,000 Indian nationals in the Gulf have sought assistance for repatriation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed all departments to take necessary measures to aid affected citizens. Similarly, the Indonesian Embassy has announced a phased evacuation plan for its citizens in Iran, while also advising those in the Gulf to remain vigilant.

Despite government efforts, many migrant workers express skepticism about their safety and the adequacy of support. Rhea Abraham, a security researcher in Bahrain, highlighted the inadequacy of designated shelters, noting that they are often far from where expatriates live. This sentiment is echoed by others who feel trapped in precarious living conditions without adequate escape routes.

While some reports indicate that migrant workers are remaining calm and continuing their daily routines, others highlight significant anxiety and distress among those in conflict zones. For example, Anwar Hossain, a Bangladeshi worker, described fleeing with his employers from Nabatieh to Saida amid ongoing bombings, illustrating the stark differences in experiences among migrant workers.

• “I want to go back home. I have three children, and I’m very scared the conflict will worsen. I can see drones and missiles passing by from the windows here,” — Anna Santos, Filipino Domestic Worker

• “The Gulf countries are not built for wars – they’re marketed as being the safest in the world.” — Rhea Abraham, Security Researcher

• “I’ll do my job or someone else will take it,” — Bibin Lal, Plumber in Bahrain

• “Being afraid doesn’t help anything.” — Eni Yuliana, Indonesian Domestic Worker

As the situation evolves, governments and organizations are closely monitoring the safety of migrant workers in the Gulf. Continued efforts for repatriation and support are expected, but the long-term implications of the conflict on migrant labor and remittances remain uncertain.