What is it about?

This publication compares labor migration policies and migrant rights in three resource-rich countries: Canada, Norway, and the UAE. It explores differences and similarities in how these nations attract and manage foreign workers based on their economic needs, focusing on distinctions between high- and low-skilled migrants. The study highlights the varied approaches to migrant integration, settlement rights, and labor mobility in the context of each country's political system and migration framework. Despite the countries ' contrasting socio-political contexts, it also identifies surprising parallels, particularly in temporary migration programs for low-skilled workers.

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Why is it important?

This publication is important because it provides a nuanced comparison of labor migration policies in three diverse, resource-rich countries—Canada, Norway, and the UAE—highlighting how each manages the balance between economic needs and migrants' rights. By examining the treatment of high- and low-skilled migrants, the study reveals critical insights into the trade-offs between attracting foreign labor and ensuring equitable rights and integration. It underscores the global relevance of labor migration policy, offering valuable lessons for policymakers on fostering sustainable economic growth while addressing social justice concerns. The findings are particularly timely given ongoing debates on migration, globalization, and human rights in resource-dependent economies.

Perspectives

Labor migration is a cornerstone of economic growth for resource-rich nations like Canada, Norway, and the UAE. Yet, it also brings complex social equity, integration, and sustainability challenges. From my perspective, this study highlights critical differences in migration policies and uncovers shared challenges that demand innovative solutions. 1. Balancing Economic Needs and Social Justice: Each country’s approach reflects a trade-off between economic imperatives and migrants’ rights. While high-skilled workers often benefit from better rights and integration, low-skilled workers face significant restrictions. I believe striking a balance between these competing priorities is essential for fostering equitable growth. 2. The Temporariness Dilemma: The UAE’s “permanent temporariness” model for migrants and Canada’s growing reliance on temporary programs for low-skilled workers illustrate a global trend. This is a call for policies that ensure economic flexibility without compromising long-term social cohesion and human dignity. 3. Policy Innovation through Comparative Insights: By identifying parallels in policies, such as the restrictive nature of temporary work programs, this research emphasizes the need for policy innovation. Countries can learn from one another’s successes and challenges to design more sustainable and inclusive migration frameworks. 4. Migration as a Development Tool: Labor migration should be viewed as a solution to labor shortages and a tool for global development. I believe enhancing migrants’ rights, enabling family reunification, and providing pathways to permanent residency can uplift migrant communities and create mutual benefits for both sending and receiving countries. 5. Human Capital Utilization: Canada and Norway emphasize integration and skill recognition, while the UAE focuses on economic utility. Adopting a hybrid model that values human capital across all skill levels can maximize economic and social outcomes. 6. Implications for Global Migration Governance: The study’s findings are relevant beyond the three countries, contributing to broader discussions on migration governance, labor rights, and international cooperation. I hope this research inspires global frameworks that balance economic growth with migrants’ well-being. This publication reflects my commitment to advancing sustainable migration policies that address economic needs while upholding the rights and dignity of all migrants.

Dr. Mouawiya Al Awad
Zayed University

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Labour Migrations to Resource-rich Countries: Comparative Perspectives on Migrants’ Rights in Canada, Norway and the United Arab Emirates, International Journal on Minority and Group Rights, May 2017, Brill,
DOI: 10.1163/15718115-02402003.
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