Geneva, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) Qatar showcases reforms during the International Labour Conference, which the Qatari Ministry of Labour organized. The international media criticized Qatar for not being eligible to host the FIFA world cup.
This event has significance because it may pave the way for Qatar to successfully host the mega event. Qatar presented its progress in workers’ welfare and labour rights in front of some prominent organizations.
Representatives of the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), and the International organization all praised Qatar’s efforts to modernize its labour law.
Moussa Oumarou, the ILO’s Deputy Director-General for Field Operations and partnerships, said he believed that the modernization of labour legislation improved working conditions in Qatar.
He said, “ We want to progress in labour reforms to create a positive image for Qatar beyond the world cup.”
Sharon Burrow, ITUC General Secretary, said, “ the labour laws are not just an agreement, they are in legislation, and there is a system of compliance, the labour courts.”
He added, “ The system of modern slavery kafala is dead, there are labor laws, there is progress, even domestic workers in the country do not face any discrimination.”
Reforms
1- Fair Recruitment
The program was conducted by MADLSA and ILO, in which a total of 71 QVC staff were trained to provide accurate information on the rights and responsibilities of workers in Qatar. And to explain the terms and conditions of an employment contract to workers.
To share the findings of the impact assessment of the fair recruitment pilot conducted by MADLSA and the ILO in the construction sector, the program has been engaged in various Knowledge sharing initiatives, including with employers.
2- Domestic Workers
MADLSA adopted a revised standard employment contract for domestic workers in 2021. Complementing law no.15 of 2017 on service workers in the home (Domestic workers law), the revised standard employment contract specifies the additional rights for domestic workers. It provides clarity on the terms and conditions of their employment.
3- Wage Protection
In March 2021, Qatar’s first non-discriminatory minimum wage came into force after six months, applying to all workers regardless of their nationality and occupation, including domestic workers.
In addition to a minimum monthly basic wage of 1,000 Qatari riyals, the law stipulates that the employer must provide food or a monthly allowance of a minimum of 500 Qatari riyals.
4- Heat Stress Legislation
In May 2021, the Government adopted new legislation to further protect workers from heat stress. The main provision of the ministerial decision was to increase the period when outdoor work is prohibited during the summer.