<p><strong>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.</strong></p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>The recruitment agency, the organization further alleges, has not provided support and appears to side with the employer, leaving the worker stranded and vulnerable.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>The Ghana Immigration Service may also play a role in verifying documentation and supporting travel arrangements if needed.</p>
<p>HRRG is calling on the Government of Ghana and relevant international partners to act swiftly to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Secure her unconditional release from her employer</li>
<li>Ensure access to medical care for her eye condition</li>
<li>Facilitate her safe and dignified return to Ghana</li>
<li>Investigate the role of the recruitment agency involved</li>
</ul>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>The organization says it will continue to monitor developments and engage with relevant authorities to ensure a swift resolution to the matter.</p>
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