Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), a dynamic media advocacy non-governmental organization is calling for urgent diplomatic and humanitarian intervention to secure the safe return of a Ghanaian domestic worker stranded in Iraq after her employer allegedly demanded a payment of $1,500 before allowing her to leave the country.
The victim, Ms. Patience Asiam, 27, reportedly travelled to Iraq in February 2025 under a two-year employment contract facilitated by a recruitment agency identified as Sulamania Hasiah Company. After approximately one year of work, she developed a serious eye condition that forced her to halt her duties on medical grounds.
According to HRRG, instead of facilitating her return home, her employer is insisting on a payment of $1,500 as a condition for her release.
The recruitment agency, the organization further alleges, has not provided support and appears to side with the employer, leaving the worker stranded and vulnerable.
HRRG describes the situation as indicative of possible labour exploitation and debt bondage, raising concerns about the treatment of migrant domestic workers and the enforcement of their rights abroad.
The organization has formally notified the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and is engaging the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to support urgent intervention and facilitate her repatriation.
The Ghana Immigration Service may also play a role in verifying documentation and supporting travel arrangements if needed.
HRRG is calling on the Government of Ghana and relevant international partners to act swiftly to:
- Secure her unconditional release from her employer
- Ensure access to medical care for her eye condition
- Facilitate her safe and dignified return to Ghana
- Investigate the role of the recruitment agency involved
The case highlights ongoing concerns surrounding the recruitment and deployment of migrant domestic workers, particularly in situations where contractual obligations, health challenges, and employer control can intersect to create vulnerabilities.
HRRG has urged civil society organizations, media partners, and international stakeholders to support advocacy efforts aimed at protecting the rights and welfare of Ghanaian migrant workers abroad.
The organization says it will continue to monitor developments and engage with relevant authorities to ensure a swift resolution to the matter.
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