Working abroad can sometimes bring surprises, whether pleasant or not. These can be a work culture that doesn't go down well, difficult working conditions, etc. You might find yourself stuck between signing a work contract and reality. So where should you seek help if need be? Is there anyone you can talk to even though you're an expat? Are you allowed to unionize? Let's find out.
Who can expats turn to when facing hurdles at work?
If things aren't going as planned at work, don't wait for the problem to escalate before bringing it up. But before doing so, it's a good idea to identify the problem so you can speak to the right person. Sometimes, the solution lies in a simple conversation with the immediate superior without having to call in management.
Do you have an issue with your working conditions? Are you finding it hard to adapt to the work culture in the host country? The first option refers directly to the host country's employment contract and Labor Code. The second option refers more to the norms, values and traditions of the host country, which are not always in line with those of foreign professionals. For example, the culture of presenteeism, the weight of hierarchy, a lack of autonomy or, on the contrary, too much autonomy, how projects are presented, how the word is passed around, the possibility or otherwise of explaining and defending one's ideas, can be tricky for an expat.
Expat communities
Joining an expatriate community can be very useful. If you have issues at work, foreigners in the area likely have already experienced a similar situation or know people who have. They'll be able to tell you about existing associations and the steps you need to take to find a solution. You could also contact long-standing expatriates who know how to deal with workplace conflicts in the host country. In addition to practical help, calling on a community of expatriates provides indispensable moral support.
Direct manager, employer
Request a meeting with your line manager. The priority is to defuse the conflict and find an amicable solution. If the matter is serious (breach of employment contract, violation of the Labor Code), gather evidence and ask for a meeting again with your direct manager, then with the employer if required. Of course, everything depends on the specific case, the host country, its labor laws, and its culture.
In-company hotline
Larger companies may have listening units or integration groups to support foreign workers, so do not hesitate to ask for help if you feel the need to. In case you have been onboarded by a tutor in your first steps in the company, consider speaking to them.
Occupational physician
If your company has an occupational physician, talk to them. The challenges may have led to problems (stress, anxiety, loss of appetite, etc.) or even illnesses (burn-out) that need to be identified as occupational illnesses and treated (depending on the practice in your host country). If you don't have immediate access to an occupational physician, see your GP. You may prefer to see a doctor who speaks your language. Have a look at the lists of medical practitioners available at your consulate.
Networking
We often think of networking when looking for work abroad but less so when seeking advice to resolve issues. You may have joined a professional network or an international association in your host country. Consider talking to trusted members or someone in charge of the association.
Institutional websites
Some countries have set up a number of help and information websites for foreign workers. These can help you find the right contacts to turn to in the case of a dispute concerning your working conditions or work culture.
Professional associations
Do you work in agriculture, food processing, medicine, civil engineering, translation, human resources, etc.? Your peers might help. Many trades have their own federation, corporation or association. Find out if such an organization exists in your host country.
Are you allowed to express yourself when things aren't going well at work?
Unfortunately, discussing challenges faced at work is still perceived as a weakness. But according to psychologists, it's an act of courage. And yet, it's underestimated. Foreign professionals tend to hide their emotions and always show their best side. Abroad, the fear can be even greater. The host country's culture may impose greater discretion, greater tolerance of what goes wrong, and so on. Expatriates also tend to fear the "boomerang effect": the confession clogs it up a little more instead of brightening the horizon. The expatriate is not considered the victim but the problem. This explains why many expatriates prefer to keep quiet rather than denounce their challenges. However, there is the risk of falling ill or taking the whole responsibility for whatever is happening. A minor incident at work can push them to question their whole project.
To avoid reaching this point, it's best to surround yourself from the outset (expat network, associations, etc.) and get all the necessary information before talking to your superior. Some will say that the company is not a crying-in-loud place and that everyone must deal with their own frustrations. Avoid outbursts and other emotional outbursts even if you're within your rights. Remain professional, even when saying things aren't going well. State the facts clearly. Show that you know the law of the host country and your rights. Be as respectful as possible of the host country's culture and procedure. Can you approach the employer directly? By what means (e-mail, telephone call, request for a formal meeting, etc.)?
Can expatriates unionize?
It all depends on the legislation in your host country. Some countries have a much stronger union culture than others. In France, the Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty clarifies that "any employee of the company may create or join a trade union, regardless of seniority or status within the company." The French Labor Code prohibits discrimination against union members, and you are under no obligation to tell your employer that you have joined a union. The same principle applies in the United States. The Department of Labor states: "Like other workers, immigrant workers may form and join unions. The law prohibits employers from retaliating against any worker, including an immigrant worker, for attempting to form or join a union."
In Germany, a country with a strong trade union culture, EU citizens can join trade unions. The European Service for Equal Treatment states that "as an EU citizen, you can become a member of trade unions in Germany in the same way as nationals and exercise trade union rights. [...] "
Experts believe that trade unions face a new challenge. International mobility has led to a rise in the number of foreign workers whose rights must be respected. However, it is difficult for existing unions to integrate the international dimension. Some are adapting, such as the Brussels branch of the Confédération des syndicats chrétiens (CSC), which has set up an "immigrant unit" to help foreign workers.
Preparing to face new working conditions and culture abroad
The importance of planning your international career cannot be overstated. This includes all the formalities involved in obtaining an entry visa and work permit, but also seeking all relevant information on the host country's culture and working conditions. What does labor law say about workplace harassment, discrimination and violence? Are foreign employees protected against such cases? Are women's rights respected? What about freedom of speech in the workplace? Consider joining an expatriate community before your trip, or get in touch with foreigners living in your future city. In this way, you'll be better prepared when you leave and find support in case of problems. If you don't speak the language yet, consider taking language courses before you leave. You'll be much more at ease and better understand your company's work culture.
Useful links:
Expat networks
Associations pour les expatriés français et francophones (Réseau FIAFE)
Facebook groups
Expats in Australia (Facebook group)
Government information portals
Germany: Make it in Germany
USA: United States Department of Labor (DOL)
Ireland: Citizens information
Organizations for workers rights
UK: The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants
USA: National immigration law center
Canada: Migrants Resource Centre Canada
France: La Cimade
