Paradox of layoffs and continued arrivals
Economic downturn impacts foreign workers in Sulaymaniyah
SULAYMANIYAH, January 24 — Financial hardships faced by citizens are affecting the lives of foreign workers, with reports of a spike in terminations, but recruiting agencies and companies are still bringing in new foreign workers to the region.
Hama Hazhar Mahmoud, president of the Protection of Foreign Workers Organization, highlighted to 964media that locals say they need foreign workers, especially those employed in private homes, but dwindling incomes have forced many to terminate contracts or forego plans to hire staff.
Mahmoud disclosed that the current count of foreign workers in Sulaymaniyah governorate stands at approximately 7,000, a number steadily rising as companies continue to bring in workers without scrutiny.
Expressing concern, he noted the paradox of skilled workers being displaced by individuals engaged in street vending, stating, “There have been many foreign workers selling flowers in the streets, while we need skilled workers here, not flower sellers.”