BRAC lauds Qatar-Bangladesh pact on migrant worker rights

Dhaka: Qatar and Bangladesh have reached a new agreement aimed at protecting the rights of migrant workers, following criticism of Qatar's treatment of laborers involved in constructing infrastructure for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Migrant workers from South Asia, particularly Bangladesh and Nepal, played a crucial role in Qatar's preparations for the global football event and have been integral to its economy. Around 350,000 Bangladeshis are employed across various sectors in Qatar, enabling them to send remittances back home. However, many workers have reported contract violations and health issues due to unsafe working conditions.

The spotlight on these problems intensified between 2010, when Qatar was awarded the World Cup, and 2022, when the tournament took place. During this period, significant construction projects were undertaken, with an estimated 30,000 foreign laborers involved. Tragically, reports from rights groups and journalists suggest that over 6,000 workers lost their lives due to work-related incidents.

The recent memorandum signed during Qatar's emir visit to Dhaka focuses on Bangladeshi migrant workers, 80% of whom work in Qatar's construction sector. The agreement establishes a joint working group to address labor rights issues, develop relevant legislation, and ensure worker protections. Both countries have committed to resolving migrant worker issues through dialogue and cooperation.

The agreement has been praised by BRAC, Bangladesh's largest development organization, which highlighted the importance of safeguarding migrant workers' rights. The organization estimated that over 1,300 Bangladeshi workers lost their lives in Qatar during the World Cup construction phase. This MoU signifies a positive step towards enhancing the welfare and safety of migrants, ultimately benefiting both countries and fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.