Health Security of Low-Wage Migrant Workers Post-COVID-19 Pandemic SYNOPSIS

While employers are mandated to cover the cost of medical treatment for migrant workers holding a Work Permit or S Pass, the survey found that, in practice, migrant workers still faced financial barriers due to the lack of a mechanism for outpatient coverage and the possibility of breaching insurance coverage. [...] Integration and Community The COVID-19 pandemic has brought migrant worker issues to the fore and arguably fostered a sense of empathy for migrant workers amongst the local population. [...] Ground-up initiatives and community programmes, such as the migrant workers’ dragon boat team, migrant writers of Singapore (a platform for migrant workers to engage in literature and the arts), and interactive activities and excursions organised by ItsRainingRaincoats, provide a platform for migrant workers to pursue their interests outside of work. [...] Currently, the Migrant Workers’ Centre, an NGO dedicated to championing fair employment practices and the well-being of migrant workers in Singapore, partners with schools and students to create outreach projects for migrant workers under its social acceptance and integration programmes. [...] Moving forward, policies to improve the health security of low-wage migrant workers need to consider the social determinants of their health and well- being.