DMN brings disability inclusion to ASEAN recruitment and reintegration talks

By Karla Henson and Ma. Vhiktoria “Chavek” Siva

In June 2025, the Disability Migration Network (DMN) participated in two regional events organized by the Department of Migrant Workers (Philippines) aimed at strengthening migrant workers’ rights and welfare in ASEAN. Both events were attended by representatives from ASEAN governments, the ASEAN Secretariat, international organizations such as ILO and IOM, workers’ groups, private recruitment agencies, employers’ groups, and non-government organizations.

Workshop on Regional Actions for Fair and Ethical Recruitment

Karla Henson represented DMN at the Workshop on Regional Actions for Fair and Ethical Recruitment. The workshop aimed to build on the ASEAN Checklist for fair recruitment and decent employment practices. This Checklist assists governments, labor recruiters, and employers to self-assess achievements and gaps, identify needs for strengthening policies and practices, monitor progress by establishing baselines, and encourage private agencies and employers to assess their practices regularly.

Karla highlighted the importance of ensuring that fair and ethical recruitment is disability-responsive. Her inputs focused on making recruitment processes accessible to persons with disabilities, emphasizing that job advertisements, policies, contracts, and other information should be available in accessible formats, offices should be accessible, reasonable accommodation should be provided, and budgets should comply with the UNCRPD. She also raised concerns about discrimination against persons with disabilities in recruitment. These recommendations are grounded in the data DMN is gathering from its ongoing research on the nexus of disability and migration in the ASEAN region.

Development of the ASEAN Guidelines on Effective Return and Reintegration for Migrant Workers

Chavek Siva represented DMN in the consultation on the Checklist of the ASEAN Guidelines on Effective Return and Reintegration for Migrant Workers. The event granted an avenue for multiple stakeholders to be a part of the development of the Guidelines by participating in a World Cafe-style discussion. It was an opportunity for Chavek and the DMN team to share some of their observations and experiences from the ongoing research. During the discussions, Chavek highlighted the need for disability disaggregated data and the importance of social reintegration of migrant workers with acquired disabilities.

“It was an honor to be a part of the consultation that embodies our advocacy of disability-inclusive, safe, and rights-based migration for all” Chavek.

DMN hopes that these recommendations will be considered as ASEAN continues to strengthen its policies to make migration fair, ethical, and inclusive for all, including persons with disabilities.