Swiss Government hands over the Safe Labour Migration Programme to Sri Lanka Government
On 20 November, Switzerland officially marks the conclusion of its pioneering Safe Labour Migration Program (SLMP) in Sri Lanka after 14 years of implementation.
This program, which has been carried out in close collaboration with the Government of Sri Lanka and a wide range of stakeholders—including UN partners, civil society organizations, trade unions, the private sector, and migrants themselves—has played a critical role in strengthening the governance of labour migration.
A key milestone of the program is the adoption of the National Policy and Action Plan on Migration for Employment (2023-2027), which provides a comprehensive and progressive framework for improving the safety, rights, and opportunities of migrant workers. Additionally, the program has made significant strides in enhancing the skills and certification of migrant workers, boosting their employability and income potential.
With today’s formal handover, Switzerland is confident that Sri Lanka is well-positioned to continue advancing these important efforts. The transition marks the beginning of a new phase, where the Government of Sri Lanka, with its enhanced policies and institutional capacities, will further strengthen the framework for safe and dignified migration. This handover is a testament to the successful collaboration between Switzerland and Sri Lanka, and to the continued commitment to the future of safe labour migration.
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