How can sustainable livelihoods transform the lives of migrant workers? In this episode, we delve into the impactful initiatives under the IESC (Improving Economics for Stronger Communities) programme with a focus on the Sustainable Livelihoods for Migrant Workers component. Joining us are two insightful guests: Ms. Maheeka Leelarathne, Development Officer at the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment, and Ms. Nahadevendrakumar Priyadarshani, a migrant worker from Vavuniya in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. Ms. Leelarathne will share the government's role in implementing the SLMP initiatives, highlighting how these programmes aim to enhance the economic resilience of migrant workers. Meanwhile, Ms. Priyadarshani will provide a unique perspective from her own experiences as a Sri Lankan migrant worker, illustrating the challenges and opportunities they faced. Together, they contribute to strengthening migrant workers and their communities.

How are Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) enhancing the livelihoods of migrant workers in Sri Lanka? In this episode, we dive into the pivotal role that CSOs play in the Safe Labour Migration Programme. Join Mr. Sivasothy Sivashankar, Executive Director of the Federation of Institutions for Rural Management (FIRM), and Mr. Mahesh Peiris, Programme Coordinator for Safe Labour Migration at Caritas Sri Lanka, as they share their insights on how their organizations are advocating for the rights and well-being of migrants. Discover the innovative strategies they implement to empower communities, improve access to services, and create sustainable livelihoods for those embarking on the journey of labour migration.

What does it take to ensure safe labour migration for many Sri Lankans seeking opportunities abroad? In this episode, we explore the transformative partnership between Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation, Sri Lanka and the Government of Sri Lanka. Join us as Mr. Ajith Kaluarachchi, Labour Migration Specialist at Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation, Sri Lanka, sheds light on their innovative programmes aimed at empowering migrant workers. Discover how their collaborative efforts are reshaping policies and providing essential resources that help individuals make informed migration choices.

How has Sri Lanka’s Safe Labour Migration Programme (SLMP) strengthened government policies and community services for migrant workers? In this episode, we welcome Mr. Nikaril Kanth, Senior Assistant Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment, who highlights SLMP’s success in revising the National Policy on Migration for Employment and explores the transformative partnership between Switzerland and Sri Lanka in strengthening labour migration systems for Sri Lankan workers. Mr. Senerath Yapa, Deputy Director General Manager Foreign Relations from the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE), then shares how Swiss-funded initiatives, such as the hotline and awareness campaigns, have transformed support services, ensuring safe, ethical migration pathways for Sri Lankan workers.

What was the driving force behind the creation of the SLMP, and why is Switzerland committed to supporting safe migration? Senior Advisor Ms. Muriel Schwend, from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation Focal for South & South East Asia based in Bern, Switzerland, shares SLMP’s origin, goals and challenges faced while leveraging the vast potential of organized labour migration. Adding to this, Mrs. Rangitha Balasuriya, Senior National Programme Officer at the Embassy of Switzerland to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, highlights the programme’s direct impact on migrant workers and their communities, explaining how SLMP has helped establish a sustainable support system.