LEGAL REGULATION OF INTERNATIONAL LABOUR MIGRATION: CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORKS

Abstract

International labour migration has emerged as one of the defining phenomena of the 21st century, involving approximately 169 million migrant workers worldwide. This article examines the complex legal and institutional frameworks that govern labour migration, analyzing the interplay between national legislation, international conventions, and regional agreements. Drawing on recent scholarship and empirical research, the article identifies key challenges in protecting migrant workers' rights, including the persistence of exploitative practices, gaps in legal implementation, and tensions between economic interests and human rights protections. The analysis demonstrates that while international labour standards provide a normative foundation, significant disparities exist between de jure protections and de facto implementation. The article argues for a more comprehensive, rights-based approach to labour migration governance that balances the legitimate interests of origin and destination countries while ensuring fundamental protections for migrant workers and their families.