In a joint statement, leaders of expatriate communities in Qatar expressed support for the labour reforms being undertaken by Qatar’s government.
“A good number of my fellow Bangladeshis will greatly benefit from this law. (The new minimum wage) shall enable for a considerable amount for our people to send back home to their families,” Amin Rasul, Secretary-General, Bangladeshi Community Qatar, said.
“In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, these new laws are certainly a big relief for the Indian expatriate community,” said P N Baburajan, President, Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF).
In the statement, the community leaders committed themselves to “sustained collaboration with the Government of Qatar and other stakeholders toward the achievement of the goals of the ongoing labour reforms…” and “work diligently so that the labour reforms are translated into tangible benefits for migrant workers…”.
Filipino community leader Ressie Fos said: “I have been working in Qatar for some years now and have witnessed the ongoing transformation in the way that migrants are treated. Of course, there are labour disputes, just like in other countries. But, I feel empowered because our organisation gets to work with the Ministry of Labour in addressing labour issues.”
Fos added: “We do not feel alienated from them because we do have open and frank discussions with the high officials of the ministry.”
Community Leaders Forum
The statement was signed during the Community Leaders Forum held on 11 September. A detailed briefing and consultation on the new laws was provided by Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs officials.
Fifty-eight community leaders and workers’ representatives of several business establishments took part in the meeting both
“One key role we have is keeping our fellow workers informed about the working and living conditions here in Qatar and the relevant laws. I believe participation of migrant communities is a key factor in the success of the labour reforms,” John Ngurugwe, organising secretary, Kenyan Community in Qatar, said.