Gov’t, UN launch booklet for Venezuelans in Brazil

The Brazilian government and the United Nations (UN) International Organization for Migration (IOM) on Monday (Jun 17) launched a booklet with advice about human rights for Venezuelans taking shelter in Brazil. The publication aims to make adaptation in Brazil easier for the thousands of Venezuelans crossing the border due to the political and economic situation of the neighboring country.

Included are instructions on having key documents issued, seeking employment and residence, applying for a refugee status, as well as immigrants’ rights and duties under Brazilian law.

Employment

The text lists the steps for obtaining a Labor Booklet—where every worker in Brazil has formal employment registered—and the labor rights of immigrants and refugees. Key information on Brazil’s minimum wage, working hours, accidents in the workplace, Christmas bonus, unemployment insurance, etc. is also provided.

The handbook also describes banned practices in Brazil, like slave-like labor, forced labor, excessive work, degrading conditions, and debt bondage, including what may and what may not be deducted from pay.

A list is also given with important government agencies linked to the rights and duties of immigrants, like the Federal Police; the Ministry of Women, Family, and Human Rights; the Labor Prosecution Service; specialized courts and the Federal Defender’s Office. Hotlines are also provided for those seeking to report human rights violations and violence against women, children, and adolescents.

Access to information

Minister Damares Alves, - Fabio Rodrigues Pozzebom/Agência Brasil

Damares Alves, minister for Women, Family, and Human Rights, said the publication shows willingness to welcome Venezuelans who come to live in the country. “It’s a welcoming message, from a welcoming nation. In addition to its informative character, it shows respect towards our Venezuelan brothers,” she declared.

IOM mission head Setephane Rostiaux noted that over four million Venezuelans have left their country as a result of the political and economic situation facing their country. The guide, he said, is an example of how Brazil has given a comprehensive answer to the humanitarian issue.

“The guide is the result of the joint efforts aimed at ensuring access to information and the rights of each Venezuelan in Brazil. We hope it can make access to rights and services easier, improving conditions for safe immigration, benefiting everyone,” he said.

Click here to see the whole guide.