Pilots are a fungible resource.
Yes, It’s a real eye opener to work without union protection or even the legal rights afforded to most employees in many countries. it was certainly an eye opener for me.
But yes, my friend, that’s how it is,
Before taking ANY contract job it is very important to read all of the fine print, and assume nothing.
If job security is what you are after, “ex-pat pilot” is probably not the right tree to be barking up. , ... But if in spite of your better judgment You still want the thrill of running with the big dogs... (or just need the job), well then, you have to keep up, keep your head down, keep your mouth shut, make friends and allies, don’t step on the other dogs’ paws, and really, just run as hard as you can, for as long as you can...
Believe me. there are plenty of other dogs waiting to join the pack
and we are very replaceable.