VietNamNet Bridge – The Migrant Resource Centre, known as the Centre for Assistance to Overseas Workers in Viet Nam, was launched in Ha Noi yesterday as part of the Department of Overseas Labour (DOLAB)'s efforts to promote safe work-related migration from Viet Nam to other countries.

The centre, based in DOLAB's office in Ha Noi, is a result of the co-operation between DOLAB and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the Viet Nam Women's Union.

It is aimed to help maximise the benefits of migrating workers and reduce possible risks by raising awareness about migration issues for relevant stakeholders, most importantly potential migrant workers.

According to Dao Cong Hai, DOLAB's deputy head, the centre will offer consultations and information about the labour markets and job opportunities in foreign countries. It will also provide Viet Nam's law and policies concerning overseas labour, pre-migration guidance, knowledge about the destinations and information on assistance programmes for overseas workers.

Florian Forster, chief of mission of IOM in Viet Nam, said the extension of the centre to other cities and provinces would be considered if the centre proved to operate effectively.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News