Hareeta Cunniah

As an international affairs professional with over 15 years of experience, I’m passionate about building bridges — between countries, institutions, and people — through effective migration governance, social dialogue, and inclusive development.

Until recently serving as Labour Migration Coordinator for the ILO in the Indian Ocean region, I’ve led the implementation of the SAMM project across four countries, delivering over 99% of planned activities under challenging post-COVID conditions. My role involved close collaboration with national governments, social partners, donors, and regional bodies like the Indian Ocean Commission, Cap Business Océan Indien, UNRCOs, SADC and COMESA.

What drives me is making a real difference in how we design and coordinate labour mobility — ensuring that policies are not just technically sound, but fair, gender-responsive, and centered on human dignity. Whether facilitating regional frameworks, leading stakeholder consultations, or drafting decent work strategies, I bring clarity, commitment, and a collaborative spirit.