Labor shortages drive migration from the Philippines to Europe for care work, highlighting systemic issues and worker exploitation.
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Austria and other Central and Eastern European countries face labor shortages across various sectors, prompting increased recruitment from overseas. Austria has established an agreement with the Philippines to bring in workers for elderly care, following a historical pattern. This trend is also seen in Poland, which receives many Filipino workers who often use it as a transit point before moving elsewhere in the EU. Filipino migrants are notable for being older and predominantly female compared to other nationalities like Indians. Agencies market Filipinos as reliable, smiling, and culturally compatible workers. While some employers praise their dedication, there are documented instances of abuses related to excessive hiring quotas and contract violations. The phenomenon is linked to a state-driven policy in the Philippines that prioritizes labor export for foreign currency earnings, resulting in millions working abroad. These workers often undergo multiple placements across different countries before settling in new roles.
