Migrant rights groups filed a petition with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), saying many migrants were excluded from those eligible for the government's "high oil price damage support funds," and asking that the discrimination be remedied.
On the 28th, migrant rights groups held a press conference in front of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Jung-gu, Seoul, and submitted the petition.
They argued it was unfair that of the more than 2,167,000 migrants who have been staying long term for at least three months, more than 1,785,000—excluding marriage migrants, permanent residents, and recognized refugees—were left out of eligibility for the latest high oil price damage support funds.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) earlier expressed the view that when pushing support programs to overcome the economic situation, including consumption coupons for livelihood recovery, the scope of foreigners eligible for payment should be expanded.
The reason was that foreigners living in Korea are substantively contributing to our society and economy by working in key industries such as manufacturing, construction, and agriculture and livestock, and by paying taxes and social insurance premiums and spending locally; therefore, excessively excluding them from stimulus support policies could hinder social integration.