UN's International Labour Organization (ILO) announced that Qatar will officially abolish its Exit Visa system for all foreign workers by the end of 2019.
a. UAE
b. Saudi Arabia
c. Oman
d. Qatar
Details:
- Amnesty International (human rights group) report accused that Qatar, which will be hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup was failing to implement reforms and stop widespread labour abuse.
- As a result, Qatar revived its pledge to reform labour section, and introduced a minimum monthly wage of 750 riyals ($206) and also agreed to work closely with ILO.
One must know:
- In September 2018, Qatar approved legislation to scrap "Kafala", and by October 2018 it went into force for all but 5% of a company's workforce (mostly senior positions).
- By end of 2018 it was eliminated for majority of workers, and in 2019 it will be extended to all remaining categories of workers.
What is Kafala system?
- It is a Sponsorship system which regulates the status of migrant workers.
- It is used to monitor migrant labourers, by requiring all unskilled laborers to have an in-country sponsor mostly their employer who is responsible for their visa and legal status.
- This tying of migrant workers' visas with employers leads to requiring the prior consent of their employer before changing jobs or leaving, which further leads to their exploitation.
Question:
Q. As per an announcement by UN's International Labour Organization (ILO) which country will officially abolish its Exit Visa system for all foreign workers by the end of 2019?a. UAE
b. Saudi Arabia
c. Oman
d. Qatar
