Migrant Workers Exploited in Lithuania, Union Claims

Lithuanian trade unions are raising alarms over the alleged exploitation of migrant workers, particularly those from the Philippines, who are reportedly housed in deplorable conditions. Audrius Cuzanauskas, head of the Lithuanian Trade Union Alliance, described the living situation as "appalling and unsanitary," citing instances where 16 individuals were crammed into a 20-22 square meter room.

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Appalling and unsanitary. First thing – 16 people in a 20-22 square meter room.

Cuzanauskas detailed the grim living environment, noting the lack of ventilation, the presence of numerous suitcases, and a single small refrigerator for all occupants. He questioned who would be enticed to work under such circumstances, especially when businesses often complain about Lithuanians not wanting to do certain jobs. The workers, employed as bus drivers transporting tourists, especially in Scandinavian countries, are drawn to Lithuania by the promise of better wages compared to the Philippines, aiming to support their families.

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The stench is unbearable, the room is clearly not ventilated. You see all these 25 suitcases, everything is cramped, and as a luxury – one small mini-bar refrigerator.

The trade union leader expressed outrage at the business sector's push to import more workers, suggesting a pattern of exploitation. "We keep bringing them in, exploiting people, cramming 16-18 per room, and keeping them like animals. Do we still respect ourselves or not?" he asked. Wages for these workers are reportedly around 1400 euros, which is considered good in their home country, but the working and living conditions raise serious ethical questions.

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There is a huge difference in salaries here and in the Philippines. Besides, I want to help my family.

The situation came to light when three Filipino drivers complained to the police that their employer had confiscated their digital driver cards and terminated their employment. The trade union, investigating the complaint, documented the living conditions. While the company "Ollex," which hires the Filipino drivers, claims the situation is misrepresented, acknowledging that workers sometimes stay overnight while awaiting documents, the union maintains that these are not temporary resting places but exploitative living arrangements. The company's manager, Edvinas Radionovas, stated that workers sleep in double rooms when waiting for documents and that the current overcrowding was temporary due to some workers moving beds.

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We keep bringing them in, exploiting people, cramming 16-18 per room, and keeping them like animals. Do we still respect ourselves or not?