ASNS warns of position of more than 100,000 foreign workers in Serbia and calls for urgent legal changes

The Association of Free and Independent Trade Unions (ASNS) announced that it is closely monitoring the work and living conditions of more than 100,000 foreign workers in Serbia, pointing to numerous irregularities, abuses and violations of labor rights that sometimes cross into the realm of criminal offenses, such as human trafficking.

In a statement sent by ASNS, they point out that the current system favors the employment of foreign workers through tax breaks and refunds of social security contributions of up to 70%, which makes domestic workers uncompetitive, while the budget and social security system suffer serious consequences.

ASNS points to the need for urgent adoption of systemic and transparent policies, as well as regulation of the work of foreign workers, including: responsible and dedicated implementation of the law; amendments to the Personal Income Tax Law, the Contributions Law and the Law on Foreigners; precise regulation of the work of employment agencies and maximum fees; criminal liability for the seizure of personal documents and the creation of "company ghettos" and the right of foreign workers to change employers and minimum standards of accommodation.

The union also presented the ASNS Declaration on the Position and Rights of Foreign Workers, which proclaims the principles of equality, non-discrimination, dignity of work, the fight against modern "labor slavery" and inclusiveness.

In order to directly protect foreign workers, the ASNS is also planning practical measures, including information desks, brochures in foreign languages, legal assistance and the promotion of the right to organize.