The National Campaign for an Alternative Immigration System calls for the activation of occupational safety and health measures in agriculture.

Amman - April 28, 2025

On the occasion of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which falls on April 28, and on this day when the world comes together to renew its pledge to protect the health and safety of workers in all workplaces, the National Campaign for an Alternative Migration System emphasizes the utmost importance of providing a safe and healthy working environment for workers in the agricultural sector, which is a fundamental pillar of the national economy and a vital source of livelihood for a wide segment of farmers and workers, including migrant and refugee workers who constitute a large portion of the agricultural workforce. A safe working environment is the cornerstone of productivity and sustainability, and protecting the lives and well-being of workers and preventing occupational accidents are priorities that cannot be neglected or postponed.

Jordan's agricultural sector has witnessed significant developments with the issuance of the Agricultural Workers Regulations in 2021, which now cover workers in this sector under the provisions of the Labor Law. This was followed by the issuance of specific instructions for agricultural labor inspection and occupational health and safety regulations in agriculture, which represents a positive step toward enhancing workers' rights and working conditions.

The National Campaign for an Alternative Immigration System emphasizes that the enactment of these laws is in itself an unprecedented advance, but they require their implementation and implementation on the ground. The agricultural sector is known nationally and globally as one of the most hazardous sectors in terms of occupational safety and health, with workers exposed to numerous occupational hazards, injuries, and diseases. Hence, the urgent need to redouble efforts to ensure the safety and health of workers in this vital sector.

To implement legislation on occupational safety and health in agriculture, it is necessary to qualify and train more inspectors specializing in the nature of agricultural work and its associated risks, and to provide the necessary support to the Ministry of Labor to enable it to perform its oversight and executive role efficiently and effectively.

The campaign emphasizes the need to leverage international labor standards and best global practices in occupational safety and health to improve the conditions of workers in the agricultural sector. Providing safe and healthy working conditions not only protects workers' rights, but also brings significant benefits to employers and the agricultural sector as a whole, by reducing costs, increasing productivity, and motivating workers.

The National Campaign for an Alternative Immigration System appreciates the efforts initiated by the Ministry of Labor to activate the Agricultural Workers System and related regulations. However, it believes that this requires redoubled efforts and the allocation of additional personnel and resources to develop work in this field. The agricultural sector, given its strategic importance to the economy and food security, and its contribution to reducing unemployment, deserves the attention it deserves, commensurate with its sensitivity and importance.

The right of workers to protection from the hazards of work in the agricultural sector is a fundamental right recognized by national and international legislation. It is a right that cannot be co