The government of President Nayib Bukele signed a Memorandum of Understanding with United Work and Travel, a U.S.-based recruitment company, to enhance the Labor Mobility Program. This agreement is aimed at providing more opportunities for Salvadorans to work abroad in safe and legal conditions.
“This is a historic day,” said Cindy Portal, Deputy Minister of Diaspora and Human Mobility. “I am very pleased to formalize this agreement with United Work and Travel, which will allow us to further benefit Salvadorans with employment opportunities outside the country.”
The Labor Mobility Program, launched in 2021, has already provided over 14,000 jobs in the United States for Salvadorans. United Work and Travel has specifically facilitated more than 900 placements in the Alaskan fishing industry, demonstrating the high demand for Salvadoran workers in various sectors.
“The Salvadoran government prioritizes the well-being of every citizen, regardless of where they are,” Portal added. “Having opportunities for temporary jobs abroad represents a significant chance for our country to reduce irregular migration, which endangers the lives of Salvadoran families.”
Brian Gannon, Director of Legislative Affairs for United Work and Travel, expressed his gratitude towards the Salvadoran workforce, emphasizing their strong work ethic. “This program works because we recognize the hard work and contributions of Salvadoran workers, which have already been acknowledged across the U.S., particularly in Alaska. Today marks a new chapter for our company and our shared commitment to creating sustainable job opportunities for Salvadorans.”
Jason McNabb, Deputy Director of the Economic Growth Office at the U.S. Embassy, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that since October 2021, more than 13,000 Salvadorans have secured temporary employment in over 700 U.S. companies. “These opportunities allow individuals to improve their quality of life, including that of their families and communities,” McNabb stated.
The signing of this agreement represents a continued effort by both El Salvador and the United States to promote safe, legal, and orderly migration, creating new pathways for Salvadorans to achieve economic growth and stability.