In an era where labour rights and workers’ welfare have become paramount concerns on the global stage, the State of Qatar stands out as a shining example of progress and transformation. Over the last ten years, Qatar has introduced and successfully implemented a series of labour reforms that have earned it worldwide praise and recognition.
Not only Qatar has enhanced the rights and well-being of its workers, but it has also maintained strong cooperative relations with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and other United Nations (UN) organisations establishing technical cooperation programme to carry out extensive labour reforms in 2018.
Qatar’s journey towards labour law reforms began in 2010 when it won the bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022. This victory presented Qatar with a unique opportunity and a significant challenge to align its labour laws with international standards and ensure the welfare of its massive migrant worker population.
One of the most significant reforms introduced was the abolition of the notorious kafala system in 2019, since then workers are no longer tied to their employers, giving them greater freedom to change jobs and leave the country. This change has marked a paradigm shift in the treatment of migrant workers, ensuring their dignity and human rights.
Another crucial aspect of Qatar’s labour law reforms has been the introduction of a minimum wage, which took effect in 2020. This milestone not only guarantees fair compensation for workers but also establishes a clear framework for employers and employees to negotiate wages.
Qatar’s commitment to workers’ safety and health has also been commendable. The establishment of the Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund, along with rigorous safety regulations at construction sites, demonstrates the nation’s dedication to protecting its workers.
As the reforms and improvement of labour well-being is a strategy adopted by Qatar based on its conviction that workers are partners in the continued development, therefore the process in continuing and Qatar implements its commitments with transparency.
The Ministry of Labour issues monthly statistical bulletin, which highlights the key statistics and figures of the labour sector in the country, as well as the results of inspection visits to various establishments subject to the provisions of the labour law.
The Ministry has also launched a series of e-services which align with the strategy to develop the digital infrastructure for the labour sector. The digital services provide with public transitions without using paper in order to achieve excellence in performance, streamlining and expediting procedures.
