Migrant Workers Internet Radio

APMM and WACC embrace the strategy of making migrants' voices heard within contexts which frequently severely limit their human rights and marginalise them. They recognise the importance of communication and the opportunities provided by information and communication technologies (ICTs) as a means of empowering migrants, especially women, and as a way of advancing their rights - not only in the host communities but also in their home countries.

To begin the process, APMM trained a group of 20 migrant workers (most of them women) in radio production and broadcasting techniques. These workers then went on to produce and broadcast programmes in several local languages - Thai, Bahasa, and Tagalog - to facilitate use of the information in strengthening migrant organisations and their advocacy efforts. They learned how to upload re-recorded broadcasts onto the APMM website, thus reaching more migrants. (To listen, scroll down toward the bottom of the website home page, looking for the words "Internet Based Radio Program".) The programmes are also recorded on CD for distribution in order to ensure that all concerned are able to access the information provided. Those trained are expected to start posting podcasts addressing the migrants' concerns.

Migration, Rights.

APMM works to promote and protect the rights and welfare of migrants in the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions, both of which attract large numbers of migrants - the majority of whom work as domestic labourers. Although originally APMM's constituency was the Filipino migrant community, APMM is also involved with groups including Indonesian, Nepali, Thai, and Sri Lankan. APMM is committed to supporting the international migrants' movement through advocacy, organising, and building linkages and networks for the advancement of migrants' rights in host countries.

APMM played a key role in the 2008 formation of the International Migrants Alliance (IMA), which is geared to establishing linkages and solidarity among migrants all over the world. The alliance provides a global platform and capacity for grassroots migrants and their advocates to engage international bodies in the struggle against the institutionalisation of forced migration on a global scale.