UN Applauds Qatar's Labor Reforms

Qatar received praise at the United Nations Human Rights Council on Tuesday for its recent labor law reforms, which were introduced ahead of the 2022 World Cup. These changes were seen as a significant step forward, though the UN urged the country to fully abolish its controversial kafala employment system for migrant workers.

The UN's review, part of Qatar’s five-yearly check-in, was the first since the 2022 World Cup, which relied heavily on migrant workers to build stadiums and infrastructure. The event drew global attention to Qatar’s labor practices, sparking debate and calls for reform.

While Qatar made notable progress with labor protections, including introducing a minimum wage, allowing workers the freedom to change employers, and tackling forced labor and trafficking, more work remains to be done.

Praise for Reforms but Need for Further Change

Hend Abdulrahman Al Muftah, Qatar’s permanent representative to the UN in Geneva, highlighted the country’s efforts to improve the treatment of migrant workers, calling them "true partners." Despite the progress, the UN urged Qatar to continue implementing labor reforms linked to the World Cup and to phase out the kafala system, which ties workers to their employers and restricts their freedoms.

The French delegate, Claire Thuaudet, recommended that Qatar intensify the enforcement of its labor laws to ensure their effectiveness. Other nations, such as Sierra Leone, went further, calling for Qatar to abolish all remnants of the kafala system.

International Calls for Broader Reforms

Along with labor reforms, Qatar faced recommendations on other human rights issues. Several countries, including Brazil, Ireland, and Italy, called for the abolition of the death penalty. Nations like Brazil, Mexico, and Spain urged Qatar to decriminalize same-sex relations, which remain illegal in the country.

Qatar also faced questions on its treatment of women. Sweden recommended that Qatar review its laws related to divorce, child custody, and inheritance. Iceland pushed for the abolition of male guardianship laws and called for easier access to reproductive health services for women.

In response, Qatar’s delegation pointed to its rising position in global press freedom rankings, moving from outside the top 100 to 84th place. Norway, however, emphasized the need for Qatar to ensure that journalists and human rights defenders can operate freely without fear of reprisal.

Looking Ahead: 2036 Olympics and Future Reform

As Qatar looks ahead, it’s expected to be a strong contender for the 2036 Summer Olympics. Nasser Ali Al-Khater, a sports ministry official, spoke about the role of sports in fostering international cooperation. He emphasized that the legacy of the 2022 World Cup would continue to guide Qatar’s efforts in sports and empowerment.

While the country has made strides in labor reform and human rights, the UN’s review shows that there is still much to be done. Moving forward, the international community will likely continue to hold Qatar accountable, especially as it prepares for future major global events.