E-learning against work exploitation: a glimmer of hope for those affected

E-learning against work exploitation: a glimmer of hope for those affected

Bonn, Deutschland - In Germany, the fight against work exploitation and forced labor is intensified by using modern technologies. The financial control of undeclared work (FKS) of the customs administration has now started a new e-learning tool that was specially developed for its needs. This initiative is the result of close cooperation between the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (BMAS) and the General Customs Directorate (GZD).

undeclared work and illegal employment are among the central tasks of the FKS. This authority has also been commissioned since 2019 to act against exploitative working conditions. In order to offer employees a qualified training in these sensitive areas, the digital learning tool with the title "Work exploitation, forced labor and human trafficking - recognizing and reacting" was launched.

background and meaning

The situation in relation to work exposure has increased significantly in recent years. According to the international work organization, a terrifying amount of around $ 236 billion is generated annually by forced labor. Many people are also affected in Germany, which often only happens in secret. The recent investigation of the customs authorities show that there is a large number of unreported cases in this area.

The e-learning tool aims to support the FKS employees in identifying abuses. It offers a comprehensive overview of the relevant industries, typical indicators of exploitative employment, as well as information about the rights of those affected. These points are crucial in order to convey the necessary knowledge to employees in order to be able to effectively uncover forced labor and exploitation.

Another central element of the training program is case studies from control practice that are intended to help the participants use the theoretical knowledge in real situations. This method not only sharpens the awareness of the problem, but also promotes the ability of the employees to help affected people quickly and effectively provide help.

collaboration and future steps

The development of the e-learning tool is based on comprehensive cooperation that started in 2021 with a framework agreement between BMAS and the Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF). This cooperation was initiated by the common goal of effectively combating illegal forms of employment and grievances on the labor market. The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) is also involved in this initiative, which underlines the importance of the topic.

The implementation of this innovative training approach is considered a fundamental step to improve the fight against work exploitation and forced labor in Germany. Due to the targeted training, employees will be better able to provide help and to provide the victims of forced labor the support they urgently need.

For further information and a deeper insight into this topic, current reports and analyzes at www.presseportal.de Available