International migrants play a key role in the world’s workforce. Migrant workers made up 4.7% of the global labour force in 2022. A report from the International Labour Organization (ILO) highlights their contributions and challenges. Understanding their impact helps governments create better policies to support them.
The ILO Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers reveals that 167.7 million migrants were in the workforce of their host countries in 2022. This number has risen by 30 million since 2013, most significantly between 2013 and 2019.
Gender Distribution
- Male workers: 102.7 million
- Female workers: 64.9 million
Despite fewer women migrating, their presence in the workforce remains crucial, especially in care and services.
MIGRANTS IN HIGH-INCOME COUNTRIES
High-income countries host the majority of migrant workers. They accounted for 68.4% (114.7 million) of migrant labour in 2022.
Upper-middle-income countries hosted 17.4% (29.2 million). These numbers underline the reliance of wealthier nations on migrant workers.
REGIONAL FOCUS: WHERE MIGRANTS WORK
Most migrant workers are concentrated in these regions:
- Northern, Southern, and Western Europe
- Northern America
- Arab States
Trends Over the Years
- Europe’s share of migrant workers rose to 23.3% in 2022, up from 22.5% in 2013.
- Northern America and the Arab States saw slight decreases in their shares.
MIGRANT EMPLOYMENT: KEY INSIGHTS
Of the 167.7 million migrant workers in 2022, 155.6 million had jobs. Meanwhile, 12.1 million were unemployed.
Employment Ratios
- Men: 72.8%
- Women: 48.1%
The gender gap remains wide, highlighting barriers migrant women face.
Unemployment Rates
- Migrants: 7.2%
- Non-migrants: 5.2%
- Migrant women: 8.7%
- Migrant men: 6.2%
CHALLENGES MIGRANT WOMEN FACE
Migrant women face higher unemployment due to:
- Language barriers
- Unrecognized qualifications
- Discrimination
- Limited childcare support
- Gender roles restricting work opportunities
THE CARE ECONOMY: A VITAL SECTOR FOR MIGRANTS
The services sector employs 68.4% of migrant workers. This is higher than the 51.5% for non-migrants.
- 28.8% of migrant women work in care-related roles.
- 12.4% of migrant men are employed in care roles.
In contrast, only 19.2% of non-migrant women and 6.2% of non-migrant men work in this sector.
The demand for care workers continues to grow globally. Migrants play a crucial role in meeting this demand.
POLICY NEEDS: SUPPORTING MIGRANTS EFFECTIVELY
Migrants face unique challenges that need targeted policies. The ILO report suggests focusing on these key areas:
1. Ensuring Decent Work
- Migrants need fair job opportunities.
- Policies should eliminate barriers to employment.
2. Protecting Migrant Rights
- Migrants often face exploitation and discrimination.
- Laws must safeguard their rights and provide legal aid.
3. Promoting Sustainable Development
- Align migration policies with sustainable growth goals.
- Ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities.
ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF MIGRANTS
Migrant workers contribute significantly to both host and origin countries.
Host Countries
- Address labour shortages in essential sectors.
- Boost economic growth and GDP.
Origin Countries
- Remittances improve families’ living standards.
- Returning migrants bring back skills and knowledge.
ADDRESSING GLOBAL LABOUR NEEDS
ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo stated, “Migrant workers are indispensable for addressing labour shortages.” He emphasized the economic necessity of protecting their rights and ensuring decent work conditions.
International cooperation is essential for supporting migrant workers. By addressing their challenges, we foster inclusive labour markets and drive global economic growth.
Governments and organizations must work together to ensure migrants receive the support they need to thrive. Their contributions are vital to building sustainable economies and stronger communities.