HRRG calls for intervention in case of Ghanaian domestic worker stranded in Iraq

Accra, April 3, – Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG) has called for urgent government and international intervention to facilitate the return of a Ghanaian domestic worker stranded in Iraq under what it describes as exploitative conditions.

The victim, Ms Patience Asiam, 27, travelled to Iraq in February 2025 to work as a domestic worker under a two-year contract facilitated by a recruitment agency known as Sulamania Hasiah Company.

HRRG said after about one year of work, Ms Asiam developed a serious eye condition, which forced her to stop working on medical grounds and seek termination of her contract.

According to the organization, the employer is demanding a payment of 1,500 United States dollars as a condition for her release and return to Ghana.

It said the recruitment agency had failed to assist the victim and appeared to support the employer’s position, leaving her stranded and vulnerable.

HRRG described the situation as a possible case of labour exploitation and debt bondage, raising concerns about the welfare of Ghanaian migrant workers abroad.

The organization said it had formally notified the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and was engaging the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to facilitate urgent intervention and her safe repatriation.

It called on the Government of Ghana and relevant stakeholders to secure her unconditional release, ensure access to medical care, and facilitate her return to Ghana.

HRRG also urged an investigation into the role of the recruitment agency involved in the matter.

The organization appealed to civil society organizations, the media, and international partners to support efforts to protect the rights and welfare of Ghanaian migrant workers.

Source:Human Rights Reporters Ghana