03/04/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HRR Ghana Calls for Urgent Intervention to Rescue Ghanaian Domestic Worker Stranded in Iraq
Accra, Ghana March 3, 2026 – Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG) is calling for urgent government and international intervention in the case of a Ghanaian migrant domestic worker currently stranded in Iraq under conditions that raise serious human rights concerns.
The victim, Ms. Patience Asiam (27), travelled to Iraq in February 2025 to work as a domestic worker under a two-year contract facilitated by a recruitment agency identified as Sulamania Hasiah Company.
After approximately one year of service, she reportedly developed a serious eye condition, rendering her unable to continue working and forcing her to seek termination of her contract on medical grounds.
Disturbingly, her employer is demanding a payment of USD 1,500 as a condition for her release and return to Ghana.
This demand raises concerns of debt bo***ge, labour exploitation, and restriction of her fundamental right to return home.
Efforts by the victim to seek assistance from the facilitating agency have so far proven unsuccessful, as the agency appears to side with the employer instead of supporting her repatriation.
HRRG considers this situation a potential case of forced labour and exploitation, and is deeply concerned about the victim’s health, safety, and wellbeing.
The organization has formally notified the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and is actively engaging the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to facilitate urgent intervention, protection, and her safe repatriation to Ghana..
Our Demands
HRRG is calling for:
Immediate diplomatic intervention to secure her unconditional release;
Urgent medical attention for her deteriorating eye condition;
Safe and swift repatriation to Ghana;
Investigation into the conduct of the recruitment agency involved;
Stronger protections for Ghanaian migrant workers to prevent similar occurrences.
A Call to Action
We urge civil society organizations, the media, and international partners to support efforts to ensure the safety and dignity of Ms. Asiam and to amplify advocacy against the exploitation of migrant domestic workers.
While we continue to engage relevant authorities, HRRG emphasizes the need for swift, coordinated action to prevent further harm.
The organization remains committed to protecting the rights of vulnerable populations and will continue to monitor developments in this case closely.
Signed:
Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor
Executive Director
Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG)
📧 [email protected]
📞 +233 (0)243 676 813
