I worked on this story for Bloomberg News while I was in Kathmandu last year. The topic needs much more coverage and so much more action. I have heard reports of at least one Nepali corpse coming into the airport per day from Qatar. It's slavery. And it's worldwide. I'm quite clueless when it comes to international law, but it's obvious that some type of international regulation needs to be in place for migrant workers around the world.
I use an iPhone; I'm writing this on one of my two Mac laptops. It's obvious Apple holds their product design to an incredible high standard. That standard should be reflected in their international labor regulations.
Bibek is just one of millions who are abused and enslaved daily so that we can use our iPhones, computers and other gadgets.
Here in Cambodia, It's not just labor that is being sold. It's women, children and it's horrific. When will this become a major issue for governments around the world? When will international standards be implemented?
Here are some ways to help and become aware.
- http://www.notforsalecampaign.org/
- http://edition.cnn.com/interactive/2013/12/world/cambodia-child-sex-trade/index.html
- http://www.halftheskymovement.org/?gclid=CL7_4oqlnbwCFZRr7Aod4EQAtQ
- http://www.endslaverynow.com/
- http://www.iloartworks.org/forced-labour/end-slavery-now/
- https://www.freetheslaves.net/sslpage.aspx?pid=328