By: Nyima Sillah
Yahya Sonko, migration activist and co-founder of Gambia European Center for Jobs, Migration, and Development Agency in Stuttgart, Germany has urged the government of The Gambia to “urgently” clarify the specific number of participants allowed under the Spain circular migration in order to manage expectations and prevent misinformation.
“Recent observations of large crowds at the Immigration Headquarters in Banjul seeking passports underscore the urgency of disseminating accurate information to prevent misconceptions about immediate travel opportunities among youth,” Sonko said in a statement shared with this medium.
He pointed out that eligibility criteria and selection process are crucial to conveying to the public that participation in the circular migration program is contingent upon meeting specific eligibility criteria, stressing that the prospective candidates must understand that selection is not arbitrary rather it is based on predefined qualifications and requirements.
“The government should outline these criteria explicitly to ensure applicants are well-informed about the standards they must meet to be considered for the program. Also, commitment to agreement terms and preventing absconding is a significant concern. To address this, the government must implement a rigorous sensitization program that educates participants about the importance of adhering to the terms of their contracts,” he stressed.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Gambian government’s objective to create employment opportunities and reduce both unemployment and underemployment, adding that this marks a significant step toward providing legal pathways for Gambians seeking seasonal employment abroad but the success of the agreement is premised on several critical factors that require immediate and thorough attention.
“The success of the agreement is contingent upon The Gambian government’s proactive measures to ensure transparency, safeguard participants’ rights, and uphold the program’s integrity by addressing these critical areas with diligence and foresight,” Sonko stated.
The migration activist further stated that the working conditions and welfare of Gambian youths participating in the program are paramount, claiming that reports from similar agreements with other African nations have highlighted risks of labor exploitation and substandard working conditions.
He suggested that to mitigate such risks, The Gambia government should establish a dedicated team to conduct comprehensive research into the nature of circular migration. ‘This team should engage directly with potential employers in Spain to assess their work regulations, conditions, and safety policies. Such proactive measures will help ensure that our youths are employed in environments that respect their rights and well-being.”
