Description
The project aims is to support migrants in defending their work related rights and tackle discrimination against migrant workers. The vast majority of migrants (both from the EU and Third Countries) come to the Czech republic because of work (earning). In the case of low-skilled workers, who are targeted by the project in particular, it often happens that they do not have the financial resources for legal representation and counseling which would help them to effectively enforce their rights. The project therefore offers free legal services to help the disadvantaged (or more vulnerable) groups but also supports strategic litigation of cases. It also focuses on mainstreaming of information with relevant authorities and the public. We believe that the project will support human rights protection and help combat discrimination.
Summary of project results
The project for strengthening the rights of migrants at work aims to strengthen the protection of migrants' rights in employment, including protection in relations marked as illegal employment and exploitation. As most migrants come to the Czech Republic for economic reasons, their rights are often violated and parts of them do not have the financial means for their enforcement. The target group consisted of migrants coming to the Czech Republic to work both from EU countries and other non EU countries.The project had three goals: (i) assistance to specific individuals from disadvantaged groups through free legal aid; (Ii) strengthening the protection of the rights of migrant workers by strategic litigation and (iii) mainstreaming of information about identified problems and proposed solutions. Legal counselling has been provided to 215 foreigners from 45 countries. Some foreigners needed only basic orientation in Czech legal system or advise in the field of labor relations, others were given detailed advice and represented by a lawyer (e.g. at court). During the project were monitored most common violations in the area of labor law which have been processed by the end of the project in the analysis and presented for public debate. During the project the individual problems were mainstreamed and discussed with various government officials and public. Thanks to the project the target group (migrants) were provided free legal aid, their rights were promoted and enforced. Thanks to the data collected during the project the analysis describing the most common problems foreigners face in the Czech republic in relation with their employment. This analysis was mainstreamed and aims to be inspirative for further strategic litigation.
Summary of bilateral results