Enhancing Humane and Orderly Labour Migration from Guatemala
Publication Date:
2025
Pages:
4
Item Reference:
IB-2025-09
Publication Place:
Bruges
Publication Language:
EN
Copyright Holder:
UNU Institute on Comparative Regional Integration Studies
Copyright Year:
2025
Policy Brief Type:
Abstract:
- Guatemala faces high levels of international migration due to insecurity and lack of economic opportunities, with 56% of the population living in poverty and many migrating irregularly under inhumane conditions.
- The Temporary Workers Program, officially launched in 2021, has managed over 10,000 contracts, providing a regulated alternative to irregular migration.
- Developed economies face shortages in technical and clerical jobs, with over 8.6 million new jobs expected in fields like transport, mechanics, and vocational education by 2027.
- Aligning the skill set of Guatemalan workers with international demand, providing training on working conditions and rights, and promoting financial literacy for effective use of remittances and earnings is necessary.
- International agreements and diplomacy efforts, such as the Global Compact for Migration and U.S.-Guatemala labour agreements, aim to strengthen legal pathways and economic opportunities for Guatemalan workers abroad.
