Labour migration and international construction

The recruitment and employment of foreign workers is one aspect of international construction which has received little attention to date. This paper outlines some of the major patterns and characteristics of the international migration of labour for work in the construction industry, focusing on two regions (the Middle East and the Far East) where such migration is particularly important. It highlights the relationship between international contracting and labour migration and traces the emergence and development of an international market for construction labour. The basic condition of excess supply in this small but significant market is driving down wages and conditions of work for migrant construction workers. It could also indirectly be affecting the terms and conditions of employment for construction workers throughout the world.