From August 17–19, young people from various countries gathered in Yogyakarta and Cilacap for the Asian Youth Academy (AYA). We learned firsthand about the dynamics of living alongside migrant workers, especially those who have returned home after working abroad.

The meeting opened our eyes to the fact that returning home is not the end of a migrant worker’s journey. Many continue to face challenges — difficulty finding new jobs, social stigma, and the lack of adequate state protection.

AYA serves as a shared learning space where young people across Asia commit to voicing solidarity, supporting migrant workers, and advocating for a more dignified life for them.

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