Kav LaOved serves over 35,000 workers every year. In 2012 alone, Kav LaOved compensated over 16,000,000 NIS in sums withheld by employers and entitled to workers by law (i.e. pension payments, recuperation, holidays, etc.). Over 3,394 new files were opened and 7,715 files closed in 2012.
Improving Working Conditions for Migrant Workers
Fighting exorbitant brokerage fees: Kav LaOved has succeeded in pushing for bilateral agreements between countries to improve the process of recruitment of migrant workers. Two agreements have been implemented, one with the Government of Thailand which began recruiting agricultural workers through the IOM (International Organization for Migration) and the other with the governments of Bulgaria and Romania which coordinated recruitment of workers in construction. These agreements guarantee the recruitment of workers through the states themselves, contrary to many states which have privatized recruitment.
Limiting the import of new workers and demanding the use of workers currently in Israel, inhibiting the migration of additional workers.
Extending the time for organization after the end of the permit period: Kav LaOved worked to extend the organization period before leaving the country from 30 to 60 days, deterring employers from not paying severance pay and allowing workers to demand their rights. Workers whose permit period is about to end, and whose employers moved to a retirement home or passed away, can legally substitute for other workers.
Replacement visa (December 11, 2012): Often caregivers wish to go on holiday to visit their family in their home country and their employer is supportive, but no temporary replacement can be found for the caregiver. In December 2012, a replacement visa was released, such that caregivers who have been in Israel over 51 months (after which they cannot seek a new employer) can register as a replacement caregiver and fulfil this role until they are required to leave Israel after a total of 63 months in the country.
After the High Court ruling in April 2011, new regulations were released in February 2012 outlining caregivers’ new option of continuing to work in Israel with their child, including necessary registrations and conditions to do so.
Updating the inter-visa procedure which allowed the worker to go back home for vacation, even when he/she is not employed and when the manpower company refuses to approve his/her leave.
Improving the welfare of caregivers – Sexual harassment, abuse and delayed payment – all were decreased amoung caregivers. Activities by the authorities, under Kav LaOved’s pressure, assisted in bringing about change in this arena.
Improvement in the welfare of refugees and asylum seekers – Consistent and close cooperation with other organizations prevented the attempts of seniors in the Ministry of Internal Affairs, led by Minister Eli Yishay, to prevent refugees from working, and thus surviving, in Israel.
