Twenty Years of Searching for a Solution : A Minor Field Study of the continuous abuse of Sri Lankan women working as housemaids in the Middle East

Abstract: The debate regarding the problems faced by Sri Lankan women migrating abroad for employment is not a very recent, but a rather protracted one. For this reason it becomes even more interesting to study. When comparing current articles and research with equivalent work performed during the 1990’s one immediately discovers that the same problems exist and are still being reported. This in spite of massive reformations in policies by the Sri Lankan Bureau of Foreign Employment and the implementation of other, non-state bound organisations. This study aims at examining the reasons behind the absence of apparent improvement regarding migrating women’s situation. By looking at criticism stated during the 1990’s and suggested improvements; and comparing them to current implementations; certain factors emerges as more important in contributing to the problem than others. Qualitative interviews with Sri Lankan women whom recently have worked abroad and returned home have been conducted, so as to get an understanding of which policies that are truly implemented and which are merely paper decorations today. This study shows that bilateral agreements are of immense importance in the efforts of protecting migrating workers’ rights. It further highlights the lack of communication and cooperation within and between Sri Lankan organisations in dealing with the issue.