Doha: In cooperation with the Ministry of Labour (MOL), the Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the National Committee for Human Rights (NHRC) organized a seminar on workers’ rights, focusing on protection measures and sustainability prospects. This event was part of the observance of International Labour Day, celebrated annually on May 1.
According to Qatar News Agency, NHRC Deputy Chairperson Dr. Mohammad bin Saif Al Kuwari emphasized the seminar’s aim to promote a human rights-based approach to workers’ rights, tackle international challenges, and share best practices. He highlighted that the seminar responds to global challenges like digital technology misuse, climate change, and armed conflicts, which contribute to employment declines and increased migration and irregular employment.
Dr. Al Kuwari noted Qatar’s commitment to a human rights-based labour approach, which includes legislative reforms and policies to protect workers’ rights, such as freedom of movement, employer changes, and a minimum wage. He announced the launch of an annual awareness campaign themed “legal aid: you are heard, your rights are protected” to coincide with International Labour Day. The NHRC remains committed to workers’ rights, prioritizing cooperation with relevant state authorities to address emerging challenges.
Assistant Undersecretary for Migrant Labour Affairs at MOL, Hamad Faraj Dalmouk, stressed that International Labour Day honors humanitarian efforts and workplace dignity amid global technological and climate challenges. He underscored Qatar’s legislative reforms, including abolishing the exit permit system and establishing a Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund, as part of its commitment to workers’ rights protection and social justice.
Kholoud Saif Al Kubaisi, Executive Director of the Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund, emphasized the day as a reaffirmation of the commitment to uphold worker rights and foster a safe work environment. She highlighted the Fund’s role in implementing protection mechanisms and supporting affected workers, emphasizing that a safe work environment is both a moral and legal duty in an evolving work landscape.
Max Tunon, Director of the ILO Office in Qatar, praised Qatar’s workforce and the collaborative efforts in developing impactful labor policies. He encouraged engagement with the NHRC’s Strategic Plan 2024-2030, aligning with the ILO’s vision for advancing human rights in Qatar.
IOM’s Acting Chief of Mission in Qatar, Eva Naqvi, commended Qatar’s labor reforms, including the abolition of the kafala system and the introduction of a non-discriminatory minimum wage. She stressed the importance of sustained cooperation among stakeholders to maintain and advance these reforms, highlighting IOM’s expanded capacity-building initiatives in Qatar.
The seminar featured discussions on workers’ rights advancements in Qatar, the NHRC’s role, legislative protections, and strategies for worker welfare. It concluded with actionable recommendations to strengthen worker protection efforts and ensure sustainability.