Singapore quarantines migrant worker dorms amid COVID-19 surge

Singapore has quarantined four large dormitory complexes housing tens of thousands of mostly South Asian migrant workers due to a surge in COVID-19 infections, with over 200 cases detected in these facilities.

The city-state, battling a worsening outbreak, is facing criticism over cramped and unsanitary living conditions in these dorms, where workers report social distancing is impossible.

Migrant workers express fears about their living conditions, with some sharing rooms with up to 12 people and facing issues with shared facilities, which rights groups call a 'recipe for disaster'.

Despite quarantine measures, employers are required to continue paying the quarantined workers, and authorities are working to improve hygiene and provide meals.

The infections in dormitories are sparking discussions in Singapore about the treatment of foreign laborers who have contributed to the nation's development.

Amnesty International warned that quarantining workers in close proximity puts them at particular risk of exposure to the virus.