A win for migrant workers in Qatar!
By Joanna Ewart-James, From Freedom United
Qatar has finally passed a law that no longer requires all migrant workers to obtain exit visas to leave the country. Our community has been calling for this change since 2016!
Widely known as the kafala system, migrant workers must rely on their employers’ permission to obtain an exit visa. This makes it easy for them to exploit workers, in extreme cases trapping them in forced labor conditions.
Qatar is taking action! This new law represents positive change for many thousands of migrant workers, however they will still need their employers’ permission to change jobs. Disappointingly, this law does not protect all migrant workers in Qatar.[1]
Tens of thousands have taken action on our campaign urging the government of Qatar to take the necessary steps to end forced labor, including removing migrant workers’ need for exit visas.
We are greatly encouraged by the positive change and will continue our campaign to see all migrant workers fully protected under Qatari law. Join us!
In solidarity,
Joanna and the whole Freedom United team
