Qatar: Statement by the Spokesperson on the dismantling of the k

The EU welcomes the legal reforms introduced by Qatar on 30 August ending the requirement for migrant workers to obtain their employer’s permission to change jobs, while also adopting a non-discriminatory minimum wage.

Once these reforms enter into force, Qatar will become the first country in the Gulf region to dismantle the kefala (“sponsorship”) system governing the employment of migrant workers, which gives employers excessive control over them.

The EU strongly supports these labour legislation reform efforts, which it has long advocated and discussed with Qatar, especially in the informal Human Rights Dialogue.

We also commend the International Labour Organisation for its supportive and crucial role accompanying the Qatari government on its labour law reform agenda. The EU looks forward to the swift implementation of Law No. 18/2020 and further improvements of the legal framework covering workers’ rights in Qatar.