A new report says North Korea runs a state-backed labor programme that sends thousands of workers abroad and earns about US$500 million each year. Many workers are sent to Russia and China to work in construction, factories, and other jobs. According to the rights group Global Rights Compliance, workers face very harsh conditions. They often work up to 16 hours a day, almost every day of the year, and receive very little pay after money is taken by the state. Their passports are taken away, and they are closely watched, making it hard to escape. Many live in crowded and poor housing and suffer abuse, illness, and injuries without proper care. Workers must also meet strict payment quotas, which can push them into debt. Families back home are used to controlling them. The report says this system is forced labor and calls for stronger international action to protect workers and hold those responsible accountable.

Father GOD, we pray for justice and fair treatment for all North Korean workers facing exploitation in Russia and China. We pray for the immediate and effective implementation of ‘Labor Reform Initiatives’ to protect the workers (The Holy Bible, Isaiah 1:17).

Pray against the labor and soldiers trade between North Korea and Russia. Pray for divine protection for all the innocent North Koreans forced to move abroad. Pray for the safe return of all the North Koreans who are forced to work abroad by the North Korean government (The Holy Bible, Psalm 22:11).

News Source: South China Morning Post

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