Is it acceptable to discriminate against migrant workers because it is a privilege for them to work in a first-world country like Singapore?
-Abhishikta Kunduru, 19
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First and foremost, it is not acceptable to discriminate against migrant workers just because they have the privilege of working in a first-world country like Singapore.
This is because all human beings are said to be equal or must be treated equal.
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According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the UN article 1 states all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. Article 2 states how everyone is entitles to all rights without distinction of national, social origin or status being few factors. Article 23 states everyone without any discrimination had right to equal pay for equal work. These articles imply that the migrant workers are human beings above all else and must be treated equally and given equal opportunities.
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Regardless of their origin and status which in this case is their status as a migrant worker, viewed as low SES by the society, should not be discriminated against in accordance with the rights. Moreover, from a moral and ethical standpoint just because someone has less opportunities, less income or lesser education and skills than one, does not mean they should be treated differently or disadvantaged.
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Furthermore, the migrant workers came to Singapore with their own ability, or at the very least provide for the Singaporean community. Without them, the construction, domestic affairs and other such professions might be understaffed or unfulfilled. Due to them our community can now access buildings at a faster rate, roads are done or fixed quickly and enjoy convenience in many aspects of our daily life. Therefore, it is not acceptable to discriminate against migrant workers in Singapore just because they came from a different, assumed to be a lower background.
