Doha: A new legislation in Qatar which will allow foreign workers to freely change jobs and leave the country without the approval of their employers, has been praised by the International Labour Organization (ILO) as “a momentous step forward in upholding the rights of migrant workers.”
Qatar’s Prime Minister Abdullah bin Nasir bin Khalifa Al Thani tweeted on Wednesday confirming the “reform of policies & legislation to improve workers’ welfare standards” adding the country’s “full commitment to the fundamental rights relating to labour”.
The reforms will come into force by January 2020.

Qatar has also endorsed a new law establishing a non-discriminatory minimum wage: a first for the region.

“The ILO welcomes these reforms and recognizes the commitment of the State of Qatar to transforming its labour market. These steps will greatly support the rights of migrant workers, while contributing to a more efficient and productive economy,” ILO chief Guy Ryder said.

Under the new laws, workers will be able to change jobs following an initial probationary period. Previously, they required a no-objection certificate (NOC) from their employers.

The removal of exit permit requirements for all workers, except military personnel, means that they also will be free to leave Qatar, whether temporarily or permanently, without the permission of their employers.

Amnesty International’s Deputy Director of Global Issues, Stephen Cockburn said:“We have long called for the end of the abusive Kafala system in Qatar, and it would be a major step forward if these measures finally allow workers to return home or change jobs without restriction. We will be closely scrutinizing the details of this announcement and pushing for any positive measures to be quickly and fully implemented.”
—- Inputs from Agencies/UN News